Damian Lillard put on a historic scoring performance in the first half of the Milwaukee Bucks’ 109-94 win over the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of their NBA playoff series. Lillard, playing in his first playoff game for the Bucks after spending 11 seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers, set a franchise record for points in a half during a playoff game with 35. He notched 19 points in the first quarter alone—the highest first-quarter point total in a playoff opener since at least 1997.
Lillard’s early explosion helped the Bucks build a significant lead by halftime, despite a brief rally by the Pacers, who cut the lead to 12 points at the end of the third quarter. However, Milwaukee quickly regained momentum, with Jae Crowder and Malik Beasley each hitting crucial three-pointers to help solidify the Bucks’ lead and ensure they maintained a comfortable margin through the final whistle.
Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 36 points and 13 rebounds, but the team struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 8 of 39 on three-point attempts. This lack of shooting efficiency was uncharacteristic for the Pacers, who led the league in scoring during the regular season. Tyrese Haliburton contributed nine points and eight assists but downplayed the impact of the missed shots, stressing that the team simply had an off night.
Khris Middleton and Bobby Portis also contributed to the Bucks’ win with 23 points and 15 points, respectively. Giannis Antetokounmpo did not play due to a strained left calf, but his absence did not hinder the Bucks, who played with intensity and determination throughout the game.
“Setting a tone is crucial in the playoffs,” Lillard explained after the game. “That was my mentality coming into the game.”
The win gives the Bucks a 1-0 lead in the series, with Game 2 scheduled for Wednesday night in Milwaukee.
