Damian Lillard delivered an extraordinary performance in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference playoffs, scoring all 35 of his points in the first half against the Indiana Pacers. Despite setting a Bucks record for points in a half, Lillard was held scoreless in the second half for the first time in NBA history. The Pacers’ defense adjusted to contain Lillard’s dominance, which allowed other Bucks players to step up and secure a 109-94 victory.
The 2024 NBA playoffs kicked off with Milwaukee securing a win despite Giannis Antetokounmpo’s absence. Damian Lillard led the way with a franchise playoff record 35 points in the first half. In other NBA news, road teams struggled in the playoffs, going 0-14 over the weekend. The Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets, and Sacramento Kings were among the winners, while the Toronto Raptors and New Orleans Pelicans played competitive but ultimately lost their opening games. In NASCAR, Austin Reddick emerged victorious at Talladega after a chaotic final lap. Reddick capitalized on a crash involving race leader Brad Keselowski and other drivers to secure the win. In baseball, Shohei Ohtani made history by becoming the MLB’s all-time home run leader among Japanese-born players. Ohtani’s fifth homer of the season surpassed Hideki Matsui’s record of 175. Lastly, the Cleveland Guardians continue to impress, despite skepticism from some analysts.
