The Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks already treated fans to a thrilling matchup just last week. That was indicative of an overall terrific showing from both teams in the second quarter. The game saw key contributions from players on both sides, culminating in a series of pivotal plays that shifted momentum.
With just 38 seconds left in the first half, that’s when Kevin Porter Jr. made his move. He drove to the hoop and finished with a basket that put his squad in the lead. His offensive dominance didn’t end there. With 44 seconds left on the clock, he drilled a 25-foot three-point shot and with an assist from superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, showing us his shooting range and ability to capitalize on open looks.
The Pacers responded quickly, as Aaron Nesmith demonstrated his scoring capability with a driving layup at 29 seconds, assisted by Tyrese Haliburton. This sequence really highlighted how cutthroat this game is, as multiple players from both teams fought for control on the floor. Milwaukee center Brook Lopez hit a huge three-pointer with only eight seconds remaining to end the quarter. Sadly, he bricked the game-changing 25-foot stepback trey.
Defensively, Myles Turner was a major factor for the Pacers’ success. He had a monster block on Antetokounmpo’s 5-foot driving layup with only 50 seconds remaining. This amazing defensive play was a perfect example of how he changed the game offensively and defensively. Shortly thereafter, Turner delivered another defensive highlight by blocking Antetokounmpo’s three-foot driving layup at 12 seconds, solidifying his role as a defensive anchor.
Additionally, Obi Toppin contributed to the Pacers’ scoring with a 24-foot three-point jumper at 25 seconds, assisted by Turner, further extending their lead. Then, when the game clock ticked down to 58 seconds, Nesmith was there to make both free throws and add to the victory.
Despite the high-energy play, tensions flared as a double technical foul was called on Porter Jr. and Nesmith, reflecting the intensity of the matchup. In fact, as early as the first quarter, Nesmith drew a personal foul, making clear the physicality that both teams were poised to bring to the contest.
Tyrese Haliburton pulled up from 33 feet to try and tie the game up, but it was way off the mark. Going into halftime, the Pacers led the Bucks by 20 points!
Leave a Reply