A Game of Inches: Pacers vs Milwaukee Bucks Game 5 Recap
In one of the most exhilarating showdowns of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, the Indiana Pacers narrowly edged out the Milwaukee Bucks in a 119-118 overtime thriller. But beyond the final score lies a deeper story told through player statistics—moments of brilliance, lapses under pressure, and a masterclass in clutch basketball.
While headlines focus on game-winners and missed free throws, this article explores player stats with context, revealing how each contribution shaped the outcome. From Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Herculean effort to Tyrese Haliburton’s cool composure, every number has a narrative.
Key Game Details at a Glance
Detail | Information |
Matchup | Indiana Pacers vs Milwaukee Bucks |
Date | April 29, 2025 |
Venue | Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis |
Final Score | Pacers 119 – Bucks 118 (OT) |
Series Result | Pacers win series 4-1 |
Event | NBA Playoffs – First Round, Game 5 |
Star Performances That Defined Game 5
Indiana Pacers
- Tyrese Haliburton
- Stats: 26 PTS, 9 AST, 5 REB, 3 STL
- Impact: Game-winning layup and overtime leadership
- Shooting: 45.5% FG, 100% FT
- Myles Turner
- Stats: 21 PTS, 9 REB, 3 BLK
- Highlight: Crucial block in 4th quarter and consistent rim protection
- Minutes Played: 42:55
- Aaron Nesmith
- Stats: 19 PTS, 12 REB
- Contribution: Dominated the glass and hit clutch shots in OT
- J. McConnell (Off the Bench)
- Stats: 18 PTS, 3 AST, 2 STL
- Highlight: Key plays in overtime including a game-saving steal
Milwaukee Bucks
- Giannis Antetokounmpo
- Stats: 30 PTS, 20 REB, 13 AST, 2 STL, 2 BLK
- Strength: Triple-double dominance
- Weakness: Missed crucial free throws late in the game
- Gary Trent Jr.
- Stats: 33 PTS, 5 REB, 2 AST, 5 STL
- Highlight: Eight 3-pointers, including multiple in OT
- Turnover: Critical turnover in final minute of OT
- Bobby Portis
- Stats: 14 PTS, 10 REB
- Role: Gritty interior presence in Lillard’s absence
Quarter-by-Quarter Momentum Breakdown
Quarter | Key Events |
Q1 | Bucks explode to a 30–13 lead with Giannis setting the pace |
Q2 | Trent Jr. heats up from deep; Pacers claw back with Turner and Nesmith |
Q3 | Tight scoring battle; both teams trade baskets |
Q4 | McConnell and Haliburton push back; Giannis misses key free throws |
OT | Haliburton scores game-winner; Pacers edge by 1 point |
Deep Dive – What the Stats Reveal
Offensive Efficiency
Team | FG% | 3P% | FT% |
Bucks | 45.6% | 47.5% | 65.4% |
Pacers | 46.2% | 36.4% | 75.0% |
Takeaway: The Bucks outshot Indiana from deep but were outperformed at the free-throw line—a factor that may have cost them the game.
Rebounding Battle
Team | Total Rebounds | Offensive Rebounds |
Bucks | 53 | 20 |
Pacers | 45 | 9 |
Insight: Despite a +8 rebounding edge and 20 offensive boards, the Bucks failed to capitalize on second-chance opportunities due to turnovers and missed free throws.
Turnovers & Defense
Team | Turnovers | Steals | Blocks |
Bucks | 17 | 9 | 4 |
Pacers | 19 | 10 | 4 |
Highlight: The Pacers’ defense forced timely turnovers—especially McConnell’s steal late in the 4th—and capitalized better under pressure.
Fresh Perspective – The Unsung Heroes
While stars grabbed the headlines, role players and bench depth made the difference.
T.J. McConnell – The Spark Plug
Played just under 20 minutes, yet contributed 18 points, a key steal, and late baskets that swung the game.
Provided energy when the Pacers trailed and stabilized the offense when Haliburton sat.
AJ Green – The X-Factor for Milwaukee
Scored 18 off the bench with six 3-pointers.
Unfortunately, fouled Haliburton in the closing seconds, leading to the final free throw.
Coaching Adjustments
Rick Carlisle of Indiana leaned into a more fluid guard rotation, giving McConnell and Nembhard room to operate.
Mike Budenholzer was forced to adjust due to Lillard’s absence but perhaps leaned too heavily on Giannis’ minutes (44:14 played).
Strategic Takeaways from Game 5
- Pacers’ Balanced Scoring
- Five players in double digits
- Ball movement led to open looks; Haliburton’s 9 assists showcased this
- Bucks’ Reliance on Isolation
- Giannis and Trent Jr. accounted for over 50% of total points
- Lack of team rhythm was visible in crunch time
- Free Throws: The Deciding Factor
- Bucks shot just 65.4% (missed 10+)
- Pacers made key free throws in final moments, including Haliburton’s winner
Final Thoughts – The Stat Sheet Doesn’t Lie
The 2025 NBA Playoff Game 5 between the Pacers and Bucks wasn’t just thrilling—it was a masterclass in how depth, balance, and execution win close games. While Milwaukee had the individual firepower, Indiana’s team-oriented approach, defensive intensity, and clutch playmaking made the difference.
The player stats from this matchup highlight not only who performed but how they performed under pressure. From Tyrese Haliburton’s poise to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s resilience, the numbers reveal the emotional heartbeat of a playoff classic.
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