In a dramatic conclusion to their first-round playoff series, the Indiana Pacers eliminated the Milwaukee Bucks with a thrilling 119-118 overtime victory in Game 5, securing a 4-1 series win and advancing to the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
Haliburton’s Heroics Seal the Deal
Tyrese Haliburton led the Pacers with 26 points, including the game-winning layup with 1.4 seconds remaining in overtime. This basket capped an 8-0 run in the final 40 seconds, overturning a seven-point deficit and sending the Bucks home.
Haliburton’s performance also included nine assists, five rebounds, three blocks, and three steals. His clutch play silenced critics who had recently labeled him the NBA’s most overrated player in an anonymous poll. After the game, Haliburton responded on social media with a pointed message: “Overrate THAT.”
Bucks’ Collapse and Future Uncertainty
The Bucks, who led by as many as 20 points in the first half and held a seven-point lead with 40 seconds left in overtime, were unable to close out the game. Giannis Antetokounmpo recorded a triple-double with 30 points, 20 rebounds, and 13 assists, while Gary Trent Jr. added 33 points. However, critical turnovers and defensive lapses in the closing moments proved costly.
This marks the Bucks’ third consecutive first-round playoff exit, raising questions about the team’s future. Antetokounmpo has one guaranteed year left on his contract, and speculation is mounting about potential roster changes in the offseason.
Pacers Advance to Face Cavaliers
With the series win, the Pacers advance to the Eastern Conference Semifinals, where they will face the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers. The series is set to begin on Sunday, May 4. Indiana won three of four matchups against Cleveland during the regular season, though two of those victories came when the Cavaliers rested their starters.
The Pacers’ victory over the Bucks marks their first playoff series win since reaching the Eastern Conference Finals in 2014. Head coach Rick Carlisle praised Haliburton’s leadership and compared his performance to that of Pacers legend Reggie Miller.
As Indiana prepares for the next round, the team’s resilience and clutch performances have positioned them as a formidable contender in the Eastern Conference.
