Gary Trent Jr.’s record-tying three-point barrage helped ignite the Milwaukee Bucks’ 117-101 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Friday night, and Damian Lillard had high praise for his teammate after the game.
Speaking to reporters, Lillard described Trent as “unshakable,” citing his steady confidence and work ethic as key traits that made performances like Game 3 possible.
Trent drilled nine triples, matching Ray Allen’s franchise playoff record, while pouring in 37 points to lift the Bucks and cut Indiana’s series lead to 2-1.
Lillard explained that when Milwaukee was working to bring Trent to the team, he emphasized to management that the shooting guard’s self-belief and mental toughness would shine brightest during high-pressure moments.
“Some people believe when it’s going well; some people kind of get down on themselves,” Lillard said, noting that Trent’s “true confidence” sets him apart.
Milwaukee needed every bit of Trent’s firepower, especially after trailing 57-47 at halftime before flipping the momentum with a dominant third quarter.
The Bucks outscored the Pacers 39-18 in the third, fueled by a red-hot stretch where they made 11 of 18 three-point attempts in the second half.
Giannis Antetokounmpo also delivered a standout performance, finishing with 37 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists to anchor Milwaukee’s interior attack.
Defensively, Trent played a pivotal role by limiting Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton to just 14 points on 5-of-11 shooting.
Lillard, despite a tough night offensively with seven points on 2-of-12 shooting, contributed with two steals and two blocks, emphasizing the need to impact winning in multiple ways during the playoffs.
Milwaukee also benefited from key contributions off the bench, with A.J. Green scoring 12 points and Bobby Portis adding 10 points and eight rebounds.
The Pacers were led by Pascal Siakam’s 28 points and Aaron Nesmith’s 18, but their offense sputtered in the second half under increased Milwaukee pressure.
With momentum swinging back in their favor, the Bucks aim to even the series when they host Game 4 on Sunday.
Lillard stressed that sustaining defensive intensity and connected team play will be crucial for Milwaukee to continue protecting home court.
The Bucks finished the regular season as the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference with a 48-34 record, while Indiana entered the playoffs as the No. 4 seed at 50-32.
Game 4 at Fiserv Forum presents another opportunity for Milwaukee to capitalize on their regained rhythm and Trent’s historic shooting touch.
