Indianapolis hosts the opening game of the 2025 NBA Playoffs first round on Saturday, April 19, as the Indiana Pacers face the Milwaukee Bucks. This matchup reprises their contentious series from last season. The Pacers advanced in six games a year ago, but the Bucks played that series without their star player.
Milwaukee arrives in Indianapolis following an impressive conclusion to the regular season. The team boasts the league's longest active winning streak, securing eight consecutive victories leading into the postseason. They also covered the spread in seven of those eight contests.
The Pacers also finished strong. They won seven of their final eight games. Their single loss during that stretch occurred when several key players, including point guard Tyrese Haliburton, forward Pascal Siakam, and center Myles Turner, rested for the game.
This season, the Milwaukee Bucks held the edge in their regular season meetings. They won three of the four matchups against the Pacers. One specific Pacers victory came down to a controversial four-point play late in the game.
A major difference from last year's playoff series is the health of Milwaukee's two-time MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo. He missed most of last postseason due to injury. This year, Antetokounmpo is healthy and has been dominant recently, recording four triple-doubles in his last five games.
However, the Bucks enter Game 1 without guard Damian Lillard, who is sidelined with a blood clot. His absence impacts Milwaukee's backcourt depth and scoring punch.
The Pacers benefit from home-court advantage to start the series. Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis is known for its energetic atmosphere. Indiana posted the second-best home record in the Eastern Conference this season.
Observations from the court include Pacers forward Obi Toppin executing powerful dunks and guard Andrew Nembhard also finishing strong at the rim. Physicality was evident early. Bucks forward Bobby Portis was called for a foul on Pacers center Myles Turner attempting a shot.
Defensive plays marked key moments. Antetokounmpo blocked a shot by Andrew Nembhard. Pacers center Thomas Bryant also successfully blocked an attempt by Antetokounmpo near the basket. The game included several instances of players battling for rebounds and loose balls.
