The Indiana Pacers secured a crucial 129-103 win over the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 4 of their first-round series on Sunday, but the victory was marred by a significant injury to Damian Lillard. The Bucks’ star guard went down with a potential Achilles tendon injury early in the first quarter, leaving his team without their primary scorer.
Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton expressed his concern for Lillard after the game, saying, “My thoughts and prayers to Dame. What you see between us is competing, and you know you hate to see that happen, especially to a guy who’s gone through a lot. He’s given it his all to come out here and play after a scary, scary health issue. I hate to see that happen to anybody and wish him the best moving forward.”
Indiana wasted no time capitalizing on Lillard’s absence. With a 15-12 lead when he went down, the Pacers immediately went on a 10-3 run, pushing their advantage to double digits. Haliburton and the Pacers were able to maintain control throughout the game, shooting a blistering 60.2% from the field.
The win was a team effort, with Myles Turner leading the way with 23 points. Haliburton contributed 17 points and 15 assists, and Andrew Nembhard added 20 points. The Pacers’ depth was on full display, with bench players like T.J. McConnell (15 points), Obi Toppin, and Aaron Nesmith stepping up in key moments.
Reflecting on the team’s offensive flow, Haliburton noted, “I thought we did a good job moving the ball. Last game, we just had a bad third quarter, but we responded well today, came out with the right energy, and were able to get a win.”
Turner set the tone early, scoring nine points in the first five minutes. Haliburton also made adjustments from Game 3, where he felt he missed some opportunities at the rim. “I still only shot 11 shots, but I feel like there’s probably a lot that I passed up at the rim or in the paint,” Haliburton said.
Despite the loss of Lillard, Milwaukee was led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, who finished with 28 points and 15 rebounds. However, the Bucks’ offense struggled without their star point guard, and no other starter managed to score more than six points.
Haliburton also praised the contributions of Aaron Nesmith, who made a big block and converted a three-point play. “He gives it his all every night, and I think every team in the NBA wants a guy like Aaron Nesmith,” Haliburton said. “He was really big for us tonight.”
Looking ahead, the Pacers remain focused on maintaining their momentum, especially with Lillard’s injury hanging over the series. “With him being out, other guys are going to step up. We’ve got to be able to scramble, continue to bring our energy for 48 minutes,” Haliburton said.
Game 5 will take place on Tuesday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, where the Pacers will look to eliminate the Bucks and advance to the next round.
