Pacers Lead 2-0 After Defeating Bucks 123-115

The Indiana Pacers secured a 2-0 lead over the Milwaukee Bucks in their first-round NBA playoff series with a 123-115 win, powered by strong performances from Pascal Siakam (24 points, 11 rebounds) and Tyrese Haliburton (21 points, 12 assists). The Pacers set the tone with a high-scoring opening quarter and never trailed, fending off a late Bucks rally with timely three-pointers from Siakam and Andrew Nembhard. Haliburton's emotional and aggressive play energized both his teammates and the home crowd, contributing to a raucous atmosphere praised by players and coaches alike. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 34 points and 18 rebounds, while Damian Lillard returned from injury to add 14 points, but Milwaukee struggled to contain Indiana's offensive rhythm. The Pacers' up-tempo style and balanced scoring have proven difficult for the Bucks to match, leaving Milwaukee in a must-win situation as the series shifts for Game 3. Indiana's players and staff emphasized the importance of their home-court advantage and the need to maintain focus heading into the road games.