Giannis Antetokounmpo Stats Today: How did Bucks superstar fare against Indiana Pacers? (Apr. 19)
Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks entered Saturday's Game 1 against the Indiana Pacers riding an eight-game winning streak. The Bucks don't home-court advantage in the series, but Milwaukee is expected to give Indiana all they can handle in the first round.
The Greek Freak got off to a strong start, scoring on back-to-back possessions just over a minute into the game. He had 12 points, one assist and one rebound after one quarter. Antetokounmpo also drew six fouls in the quarter. His contributions weren't enough, though. The Bucks trailed 25-33 after one quarter. However, Milwaukee shot the ball well in the first period, going 9-for-17 from the field.
Giannis Antetokounmpo continued to play well, adding another seven points and four rebounds in the second period. His supporting cast struggled, allowing Tyrese Haliburton and the Indiana Pacers to grow their lead. The Milwaukee Bucks lost the second quarter 18-31 and went into haltime trailing 43-67.
Antetokounmpo came out of halftime with a vengance, pouring in 12 more points in the third quarter as the Bucks started chipping away at their deficit. The Pacers had no answer for the forward's physicality; he dominated on the interior, scoring at will in the paint. Milwuakee entered the fourth quarter trailing by 17.
Bucks coach Doc Rivers tried to lean on his star down the stretch, but Giannis Antetokounmpo couldn't led his team to a comeback win. He scored five more points in the final quarter, and the Bucks lost Game 1 98-117.