Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered a staggering NBA season-high of 54 points, but his remarkable performance couldn’t propel the Milwaukee Bucks to victory as the Indiana Pacers clinched a 126-124 win on Thursday night.

The Pacers, led by Tyrese Haliburton’s 29 points and 10 assists, along with Bennedict Mathurin’s 26 points and 11 rebounds, showcased resilience against the Bucks.

Playing without All-Star Damian Lillard, sidelined due to calf soreness, the Bucks faced adversity. Antetokounmpo’s heroic efforts, which included reaching 50 points in the fourth quarter, weren’t enough as crucial turnovers in the final minutes allowed the Pacers to seal the victory.

The game witnessed a rollercoaster of momentum, with the Pacers initially establishing an 18-point lead in the first quarter.

The Bucks fought back, tying the game at 71 in the third quarter. Despite the Bucks holding a 10-point lead in the final period, the Pacers executed a comeback, securing the win with critical free throws in the closing seconds.