The Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee is set to host an electrifying Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs first-round series between the Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers on April 27, 2025. With the Pacers leading 2-1 after dominant wins in Indianapolis and a hard-fought Bucks victory in Game 3, this matchup promises high stakes and intense competition. Superstars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tyrese Haliburton lead their teams in a battle blending physicality, speed, and tactical precision. The growing rivalry between these Eastern Conference contenders has heightened anticipation for a game that could shift the series’ momentum. Fans across the United States and beyond can catch the live broadcast, while Milwaukee’s packed arena ensures a vibrant atmosphere with tickets in high demand.
Under the guidance of coach Doc Rivers, the Bucks face pressure to level the series after an inconsistent start to the playoffs. Their 121-118 win in Game 3 provided a spark, with Giannis delivering a stellar performance, averaging 34 points and 18 rebounds. Meanwhile, the Pacers, coached by Rick Carlisle, rely on their fast-paced, team-oriented style, with Haliburton orchestrating the offense and Pascal Siakam providing consistent scoring. Milwaukee’s raucous home crowd, known for turning Fiserv Forum into a fortress, gives the Bucks an edge, but the Pacers aim to steal a road win.
The series, following a best-of-seven format, remains wide open. Indianapolis celebrated commanding performances in Games 1 and 2, but Milwaukee’s resilience in Game 3 showed their potential. Beyond the on-court action, factors like refereeing, weather conditions, and the electric arena atmosphere could influence the outcome.
Where to watch Bucks vs. Pacers live
Fans in the United States can tune into Game 4, scheduled for 8 PM ET (9 PM Brasília time) on April 27, 2025, through multiple platforms. The NBA League Pass offers live streaming with English and Spanish commentary, real-time stats, and compatibility across devices like smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. Additionally, TNT and ESPN are expected to broadcast the game nationally, providing high-quality coverage with expert analysis. For international viewers, the NBA’s official YouTube channel may stream select playoff games, including this one, for free in certain regions.
Sports bars and restaurants in cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles are likely to screen the game, creating a lively environment for basketball fans. The NBA League Pass ensures a premium experience with HD streaming, while cable subscribers can access TNT or ESPN through their providers. For cord-cutters, services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV may also carry the broadcast, subject to regional availability.
- NBA League Pass: Subscription-based platform with access to all playoff games, including multilingual commentary.
- TNT/ESPN: National TV broadcasts with in-depth pre-game and post-game coverage.
- YouTube (NBA Official): Free streaming for select games, available on internet-connected devices.
- Sports bars: Check local venues for game-day screenings and fan events.
Probable lineups and tactical approaches
The Bucks’ probable starting lineup features Ryan Rollins, Taurean Prince, Kyle Kuzma, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Brook Lopez. Coach Doc Rivers is expected to emphasize physicality in the paint, with Giannis and Lopez controlling rebounds, while Prince and Rollins stretch the floor with perimeter shooting. Damian Lillard’s return from injury in Game 3 adds offensive firepower, though his status remains a focal point.
The Pacers are likely to field Tyrese Haliburton, Andrew Nembhard, Aaron Nesmith, Pascal Siakam, and Myles Turner. Rick Carlisle’s strategy centers on speed and ball movement, with Haliburton as the playmaking hub and Siakam offering offensive versatility. Myles Turner’s defensive presence will be key in slowing Giannis. The Pacers have managed without Isaiah Jackson, sidelined for the season with an Achilles injury, thanks to their deep roster.
Both teams have tweaked their lineups throughout the series. The Bucks bolstered their perimeter defense after struggling with the Pacers’ three-point shooting in Game 1, while the Pacers tightened their defense on Giannis, forcing other Bucks players to step up. The chess match between Rivers and Carlisle, both seasoned coaches, adds intrigue to the tactical battle.
Head-to-head history: A rising rivalry
The Bucks-Pacers rivalry has intensified in recent years, fueled by competitive regular-season games and playoff clashes. In the 2024/25 regular season, the Pacers won three of four matchups, including a 35-point blowout. However, the Bucks hold a slight edge in playoff history, with Giannis proving nearly unstoppable against Indiana’s defense.
In their last five head-to-head games, the Pacers claimed three victories, but the Bucks have shone in high-stakes moments. The average combined score in these matchups hovers around 230 points, signaling fast-paced, high-scoring affairs. Giannis’s dominance and Haliburton’s playmaking, as the league’s third-leading assist man in 2024/25, keep each game unpredictable.
- 2024/25 regular season: Pacers 3-1 over Bucks.
- 2024 playoffs: Pacers defeated Bucks in six games in the first round.
- Average points: 229.1 points per game in the last 10 meetings.
- Key performer: Giannis averages 30 points against the Pacers in the last five games.
Recent form: How each team is trending
The Bucks enter Game 4 buoyed by their Game 3 win but with an uneven series performance. Their last five games, including regular season and playoffs, show three wins and two losses. Finishing the regular season with a 48-34 record, they secured the fifth seed in the East. Lillard’s return and Giannis’s consistency are strengths, but defensive lapses against the Pacers’ speed remain a concern.
The Pacers are riding a wave of confidence, having won four of their last five games, including Games 1 and 2 of this series. Their 50-32 regular-season record marked their best performance in a decade. Despite the Game 3 loss, their offense, led by Haliburton and Siakam, ranks among the league’s most efficient.
- Bucks’ last five games:
- Win vs. Pacers (121-118, Game 3, playoffs).
- Loss vs. Pacers (123-115, Game 2, playoffs).
- Loss vs. Pacers (117-98, Game 1, playoffs).
- Win vs. Thunder (112-105, regular season).
- Loss vs. Celtics (108-101, regular season).
- Pacers’ last five games:
- Loss vs. Bucks (121-118, Game 3, playoffs).
- Win vs. Pacers (123-115, Game 2, playoffs).
- Win vs. Pacers (117-98, Game 1, playoffs).
- Win vs. Celtics (123-114, regular season).
- Win vs. Cavaliers (126-118, regular season).
Referee crew: Experience for a physical game
The NBA assigned a seasoned officiating trio for Game 4, led by James Capers, with Sean Corbin and Kevin Cutler as side judges. Capers, known for his no-nonsense approach, maintains tight control over games, averaging fewer technical fouls in Bucks-Pacers matchups. This crew’s selection suggests a focus on letting the players shine, though the game’s physicality could lead to contentious calls, especially in the paint where Giannis and Turner clash.
Both teams play aggressively, with the Pacers driving to the basket and the Bucks relying on Giannis’s physical presence. Capers’s experience, including officiating NBA Finals, should ensure consistent calls, but coaches will need to keep their players composed to avoid unnecessary fouls.
Weather forecast and Fiserv Forum vibe
Milwaukee’s weather on April 27 is expected to be mild, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 64°F and partly cloudy skies, per local forecasts. These conditions won’t hinder fans heading to Fiserv Forum, which opens its gates at 6 PM CT. The arena is anticipated to be packed with over 17,000 fans, creating a playoff atmosphere that’s among the NBA’s most intense.
Opened in 2018, Fiserv Forum boasts modern amenities, including high-definition scoreboards and engaging pre-game activations. The Bucks’ “Fear the Deer” fanbase is notorious for its energy, making the arena a tough venue for opponents. Tickets are available via the Bucks’ official website, with prices ranging from $50 to $300 based on seat location.
Tickets: Securing your spot
Tickets for Game 4 are available through the Milwaukee Bucks’ official website and authorized platforms like Ticketmaster. Prices reflect the playoff frenzy, ranging from $50 for upper-level seats to $300 for courtside views. High demand means early purchase is advised to secure a spot at Fiserv Forum.
Limited tickets may be available at the box office on game day, but supply is scarce. VIP packages, offering premium seating and exclusive access, start at $500. For fans unable to attend, local bars and public viewing areas in Milwaukee provide vibrant alternatives to experience the game.
- Average prices: $50-$300 for standard tickets.
- VIP packages: Starting at $500 with exclusive perks.
- Online purchase: Bucks’ official site or Ticketmaster.
- Box office: Limited availability on game day.
Top scorers: Giannis and Siakam in focus
Giannis Antetokounmpo remains the Bucks’ cornerstone, averaging 30.4 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists in the regular season. Against the Pacers, he’s elevated his game, posting 34 points per game in their last five meetings. His ability to dominate the paint and anchor the defense is pivotal for Milwaukee.
For the Pacers, Pascal Siakam leads the scoring with 20.2 points per game. Acquired in 2024, Siakam’s mid-range shooting and drives have been critical, as seen in his 25-point outburst in Game 1. Tyrese Haliburton’s playmaking complements Siakam, but the latter’s scoring carries the offense.
Fun facts fueling the matchup
The Bucks-Pacers rivalry is packed with compelling storylines. Recent clashes, including the 2024 playoffs, have added spice to the matchup. Coaches Doc Rivers and Rick Carlisle, both NBA champions, bring tactical brilliance to the series, making each game a strategic spectacle.
- Giannis’s dominance: Only NBA player with 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists per game for three straight seasons.
- Haliburton’s elite passing: Third in the NBA in assists in 2024/25, trailing only Trae Young and Nikola Jokic.
- Fiserv Forum sellouts: The arena has been packed for every Bucks playoff game since 2021.
- Recent rivalry: Pacers won three of four regular-season games against the Bucks in 2024/25.
- Championship coaches: Rivers won the NBA title in 2008 (Celtics), Carlisle in 2011 (Mavericks).
Series schedule: What’s next
The Bucks-Pacers series follows a 2-2-1-1-1 format, alternating between Milwaukee and Indianapolis. After Game 4, the series shifts back to Gainbridge Fieldhouse for Game 5, which could be pivotal. Here’s the upcoming schedule:
- Game 4: April 27, 8 PM ET, Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee (NBA League Pass, TNT, ESPN).
- Game 5: April 30, 7 PM ET, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis (NBA League Pass).
- Game 6 (if needed): May 2, 8 PM ET, Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee (NBA League Pass).
- Game 7 (if needed): May 4, 7 PM ET, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis (ESPN, NBA League Pass).
With the series hanging in the balance, Game 4’s outcome could set the tone for the remaining games. The Pacers aim to take a commanding lead, while the Bucks fight to tie it up at home.
Predictions: Who wins Game 4?
Analysts see a close contest, with the Bucks slightly favored due to home-court advantage. The Fiserv Forum crowd and Giannis’s playoff experience give Milwaukee an edge, but the Pacers’ offensive firepower and road resilience make them dangerous.
The Bucks must neutralize the Pacers’ fast-break game, while Indiana needs to limit Giannis’s impact in the paint. Expect a high-scoring game, potentially decided in the final moments. The series’ scoring average suggests an offensive showcase, with both teams leaning on their star players.
The crowd’s role and game impact
Fiserv Forum’s atmosphere is a game-changer for the Bucks. The “Fear the Deer” faithful create a hostile environment, as noted by Doc Rivers after key wins in 2024. The crowd’s energy has been a factor in past playoff successes, and Game 4 should be no different.
The Pacers, however, have proven they can handle tough road games. Their Game 1 win in Milwaukee showed their composure under pressure. The interplay between fans and players, from chants to taunts, will add drama to the contest.
Series outlook
At 2-1, Game 4 is a turning point. A Bucks win would tie the series, boosting morale and setting up a crucial Game 5. A Pacers victory would put Milwaukee on the ropes, forcing them to win on the road.
Player health is a factor. The Bucks benefit from Lillard’s return, while the Pacers manage without Isaiah Jackson and monitor Ben Sheppard’s status. Indiana’s depth has been a strength, but Milwaukee’s playoff pedigree could prove decisive.
- Bucks’ keys to victory: Perimeter defense, rebounding, and Giannis’s efficiency.
- Pacers’ keys to victory: Fast breaks, three-point shooting, and ball movement.
- X-factor: Lillard’s health and impact could swing the game.
Bucks and Pacers’ playoff legacy
The Bucks boast a storied history, with championships in 1971 and 2021, and a passionate fanbase. Giannis has cemented their status as Eastern Conference contenders, but recent playoff exits, including against the Pacers in 2024, have raised expectations.
The Pacers are rebuilding their reputation after strong runs with stars like Paul George and Reggie Miller. Haliburton and Siakam have revitalized the franchise, which reached the 2024 Eastern Conference Finals. Their 50-win 2024/25 season signals a return to prominence.

The Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee is set to host an electrifying Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs first-round series between the Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers on April 27, 2025. With the Pacers leading 2-1 after dominant wins in Indianapolis and a hard-fought Bucks victory in Game 3, this matchup promises high stakes and intense competition. Superstars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tyrese Haliburton lead their teams in a battle blending physicality, speed, and tactical precision. The growing rivalry between these Eastern Conference contenders has heightened anticipation for a game that could shift the series’ momentum. Fans across the United States and beyond can catch the live broadcast, while Milwaukee’s packed arena ensures a vibrant atmosphere with tickets in high demand.
Under the guidance of coach Doc Rivers, the Bucks face pressure to level the series after an inconsistent start to the playoffs. Their 121-118 win in Game 3 provided a spark, with Giannis delivering a stellar performance, averaging 34 points and 18 rebounds. Meanwhile, the Pacers, coached by Rick Carlisle, rely on their fast-paced, team-oriented style, with Haliburton orchestrating the offense and Pascal Siakam providing consistent scoring. Milwaukee’s raucous home crowd, known for turning Fiserv Forum into a fortress, gives the Bucks an edge, but the Pacers aim to steal a road win.
The series, following a best-of-seven format, remains wide open. Indianapolis celebrated commanding performances in Games 1 and 2, but Milwaukee’s resilience in Game 3 showed their potential. Beyond the on-court action, factors like refereeing, weather conditions, and the electric arena atmosphere could influence the outcome.
Where to watch Bucks vs. Pacers live
Fans in the United States can tune into Game 4, scheduled for 8 PM ET (9 PM Brasília time) on April 27, 2025, through multiple platforms. The NBA League Pass offers live streaming with English and Spanish commentary, real-time stats, and compatibility across devices like smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. Additionally, TNT and ESPN are expected to broadcast the game nationally, providing high-quality coverage with expert analysis. For international viewers, the NBA’s official YouTube channel may stream select playoff games, including this one, for free in certain regions.
Sports bars and restaurants in cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles are likely to screen the game, creating a lively environment for basketball fans. The NBA League Pass ensures a premium experience with HD streaming, while cable subscribers can access TNT or ESPN through their providers. For cord-cutters, services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV may also carry the broadcast, subject to regional availability.
- NBA League Pass: Subscription-based platform with access to all playoff games, including multilingual commentary.
- TNT/ESPN: National TV broadcasts with in-depth pre-game and post-game coverage.
- YouTube (NBA Official): Free streaming for select games, available on internet-connected devices.
- Sports bars: Check local venues for game-day screenings and fan events.
Probable lineups and tactical approaches
The Bucks’ probable starting lineup features Ryan Rollins, Taurean Prince, Kyle Kuzma, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Brook Lopez. Coach Doc Rivers is expected to emphasize physicality in the paint, with Giannis and Lopez controlling rebounds, while Prince and Rollins stretch the floor with perimeter shooting. Damian Lillard’s return from injury in Game 3 adds offensive firepower, though his status remains a focal point.
The Pacers are likely to field Tyrese Haliburton, Andrew Nembhard, Aaron Nesmith, Pascal Siakam, and Myles Turner. Rick Carlisle’s strategy centers on speed and ball movement, with Haliburton as the playmaking hub and Siakam offering offensive versatility. Myles Turner’s defensive presence will be key in slowing Giannis. The Pacers have managed without Isaiah Jackson, sidelined for the season with an Achilles injury, thanks to their deep roster.
Both teams have tweaked their lineups throughout the series. The Bucks bolstered their perimeter defense after struggling with the Pacers’ three-point shooting in Game 1, while the Pacers tightened their defense on Giannis, forcing other Bucks players to step up. The chess match between Rivers and Carlisle, both seasoned coaches, adds intrigue to the tactical battle.
Head-to-head history: A rising rivalry
The Bucks-Pacers rivalry has intensified in recent years, fueled by competitive regular-season games and playoff clashes. In the 2024/25 regular season, the Pacers won three of four matchups, including a 35-point blowout. However, the Bucks hold a slight edge in playoff history, with Giannis proving nearly unstoppable against Indiana’s defense.
In their last five head-to-head games, the Pacers claimed three victories, but the Bucks have shone in high-stakes moments. The average combined score in these matchups hovers around 230 points, signaling fast-paced, high-scoring affairs. Giannis’s dominance and Haliburton’s playmaking, as the league’s third-leading assist man in 2024/25, keep each game unpredictable.
- 2024/25 regular season: Pacers 3-1 over Bucks.
- 2024 playoffs: Pacers defeated Bucks in six games in the first round.
- Average points: 229.1 points per game in the last 10 meetings.
- Key performer: Giannis averages 30 points against the Pacers in the last five games.
Recent form: How each team is trending
The Bucks enter Game 4 buoyed by their Game 3 win but with an uneven series performance. Their last five games, including regular season and playoffs, show three wins and two losses. Finishing the regular season with a 48-34 record, they secured the fifth seed in the East. Lillard’s return and Giannis’s consistency are strengths, but defensive lapses against the Pacers’ speed remain a concern.
The Pacers are riding a wave of confidence, having won four of their last five games, including Games 1 and 2 of this series. Their 50-32 regular-season record marked their best performance in a decade. Despite the Game 3 loss, their offense, led by Haliburton and Siakam, ranks among the league’s most efficient.
- Bucks’ last five games:
- Win vs. Pacers (121-118, Game 3, playoffs).
- Loss vs. Pacers (123-115, Game 2, playoffs).
- Loss vs. Pacers (117-98, Game 1, playoffs).
- Win vs. Thunder (112-105, regular season).
- Loss vs. Celtics (108-101, regular season).
- Pacers’ last five games:
- Loss vs. Bucks (121-118, Game 3, playoffs).
- Win vs. Pacers (123-115, Game 2, playoffs).
- Win vs. Pacers (117-98, Game 1, playoffs).
- Win vs. Celtics (123-114, regular season).
- Win vs. Cavaliers (126-118, regular season).
Referee crew: Experience for a physical game
The NBA assigned a seasoned officiating trio for Game 4, led by James Capers, with Sean Corbin and Kevin Cutler as side judges. Capers, known for his no-nonsense approach, maintains tight control over games, averaging fewer technical fouls in Bucks-Pacers matchups. This crew’s selection suggests a focus on letting the players shine, though the game’s physicality could lead to contentious calls, especially in the paint where Giannis and Turner clash.
Both teams play aggressively, with the Pacers driving to the basket and the Bucks relying on Giannis’s physical presence. Capers’s experience, including officiating NBA Finals, should ensure consistent calls, but coaches will need to keep their players composed to avoid unnecessary fouls.
Weather forecast and Fiserv Forum vibe
Milwaukee’s weather on April 27 is expected to be mild, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 64°F and partly cloudy skies, per local forecasts. These conditions won’t hinder fans heading to Fiserv Forum, which opens its gates at 6 PM CT. The arena is anticipated to be packed with over 17,000 fans, creating a playoff atmosphere that’s among the NBA’s most intense.
Opened in 2018, Fiserv Forum boasts modern amenities, including high-definition scoreboards and engaging pre-game activations. The Bucks’ “Fear the Deer” fanbase is notorious for its energy, making the arena a tough venue for opponents. Tickets are available via the Bucks’ official website, with prices ranging from $50 to $300 based on seat location.
Tickets: Securing your spot
Tickets for Game 4 are available through the Milwaukee Bucks’ official website and authorized platforms like Ticketmaster. Prices reflect the playoff frenzy, ranging from $50 for upper-level seats to $300 for courtside views. High demand means early purchase is advised to secure a spot at Fiserv Forum.
Limited tickets may be available at the box office on game day, but supply is scarce. VIP packages, offering premium seating and exclusive access, start at $500. For fans unable to attend, local bars and public viewing areas in Milwaukee provide vibrant alternatives to experience the game.
- Average prices: $50-$300 for standard tickets.
- VIP packages: Starting at $500 with exclusive perks.
- Online purchase: Bucks’ official site or Ticketmaster.
- Box office: Limited availability on game day.
Top scorers: Giannis and Siakam in focus
Giannis Antetokounmpo remains the Bucks’ cornerstone, averaging 30.4 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists in the regular season. Against the Pacers, he’s elevated his game, posting 34 points per game in their last five meetings. His ability to dominate the paint and anchor the defense is pivotal for Milwaukee.
For the Pacers, Pascal Siakam leads the scoring with 20.2 points per game. Acquired in 2024, Siakam’s mid-range shooting and drives have been critical, as seen in his 25-point outburst in Game 1. Tyrese Haliburton’s playmaking complements Siakam, but the latter’s scoring carries the offense.
Fun facts fueling the matchup
The Bucks-Pacers rivalry is packed with compelling storylines. Recent clashes, including the 2024 playoffs, have added spice to the matchup. Coaches Doc Rivers and Rick Carlisle, both NBA champions, bring tactical brilliance to the series, making each game a strategic spectacle.
- Giannis’s dominance: Only NBA player with 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists per game for three straight seasons.
- Haliburton’s elite passing: Third in the NBA in assists in 2024/25, trailing only Trae Young and Nikola Jokic.
- Fiserv Forum sellouts: The arena has been packed for every Bucks playoff game since 2021.
- Recent rivalry: Pacers won three of four regular-season games against the Bucks in 2024/25.
- Championship coaches: Rivers won the NBA title in 2008 (Celtics), Carlisle in 2011 (Mavericks).
Series schedule: What’s next
The Bucks-Pacers series follows a 2-2-1-1-1 format, alternating between Milwaukee and Indianapolis. After Game 4, the series shifts back to Gainbridge Fieldhouse for Game 5, which could be pivotal. Here’s the upcoming schedule:
- Game 4: April 27, 8 PM ET, Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee (NBA League Pass, TNT, ESPN).
- Game 5: April 30, 7 PM ET, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis (NBA League Pass).
- Game 6 (if needed): May 2, 8 PM ET, Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee (NBA League Pass).
- Game 7 (if needed): May 4, 7 PM ET, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis (ESPN, NBA League Pass).
With the series hanging in the balance, Game 4’s outcome could set the tone for the remaining games. The Pacers aim to take a commanding lead, while the Bucks fight to tie it up at home.
Predictions: Who wins Game 4?
Analysts see a close contest, with the Bucks slightly favored due to home-court advantage. The Fiserv Forum crowd and Giannis’s playoff experience give Milwaukee an edge, but the Pacers’ offensive firepower and road resilience make them dangerous.
The Bucks must neutralize the Pacers’ fast-break game, while Indiana needs to limit Giannis’s impact in the paint. Expect a high-scoring game, potentially decided in the final moments. The series’ scoring average suggests an offensive showcase, with both teams leaning on their star players.
The crowd’s role and game impact
Fiserv Forum’s atmosphere is a game-changer for the Bucks. The “Fear the Deer” faithful create a hostile environment, as noted by Doc Rivers after key wins in 2024. The crowd’s energy has been a factor in past playoff successes, and Game 4 should be no different.
The Pacers, however, have proven they can handle tough road games. Their Game 1 win in Milwaukee showed their composure under pressure. The interplay between fans and players, from chants to taunts, will add drama to the contest.
Series outlook
At 2-1, Game 4 is a turning point. A Bucks win would tie the series, boosting morale and setting up a crucial Game 5. A Pacers victory would put Milwaukee on the ropes, forcing them to win on the road.
Player health is a factor. The Bucks benefit from Lillard’s return, while the Pacers manage without Isaiah Jackson and monitor Ben Sheppard’s status. Indiana’s depth has been a strength, but Milwaukee’s playoff pedigree could prove decisive.
- Bucks’ keys to victory: Perimeter defense, rebounding, and Giannis’s efficiency.
- Pacers’ keys to victory: Fast breaks, three-point shooting, and ball movement.
- X-factor: Lillard’s health and impact could swing the game.
Bucks and Pacers’ playoff legacy
The Bucks boast a storied history, with championships in 1971 and 2021, and a passionate fanbase. Giannis has cemented their status as Eastern Conference contenders, but recent playoff exits, including against the Pacers in 2024, have raised expectations.
The Pacers are rebuilding their reputation after strong runs with stars like Paul George and Reggie Miller. Haliburton and Siakam have revitalized the franchise, which reached the 2024 Eastern Conference Finals. Their 50-win 2024/25 season signals a return to prominence.
