Pascal Siakam’s exceptional performance, coupled with the Pacers’ resurgence in the second half, proved too much for the Bucks to overcome. Myles Turner contributed 22 points, Andrew Nembhard added 20, and Tyrese Haliburton dished out 12 assists for the Pacers. Brook Lopez led the Bucks with 22 points, while Khris Middleton managed 15 and Bobby Portis had a double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds.
Despite Damian Lillard’s impressive start, the Pacers’ defense tightened in the second half, limiting his impact. The Bucks, still without the injured Giannis Antetokounmpo, lacked the firepower to keep pace with the Pacers’ balanced attack.
The series now shifts to Indianapolis for Game 3 on Friday. The Pacers will aim to seize home-court advantage, while the Bucks will be desperate to regain their footing and avoid falling into a 1-2 deficit.