The Milwaukee Bucks secured their first three-game winning streak of the season with a 105-99 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Friday night. Kevin Porter Jr. shone brightly, contributing 23 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds. Ryan Rollins added 22 points, and Bobby Portis, returning after a two-game absence due to a bruised hip, contributed 21 points. The Bucks' strong performance was further bolstered by Jericho Sims' career-high 15 rebounds and Myles Turner's 10 rebounds against his former team.
The game was a close affair, with Indiana making a 15-0 run in the fourth quarter to narrow the gap to 91-87 with 4:11 remaining. However, Kevin Porter Jr. responded with a crucial driving layup, sparking a 7-0 run that gave the Bucks a comfortable lead. The Bucks' dominance continued with a 48-37 rebounding advantage and a 17-8 edge in second-chance points.
Despite the loss, the Pacers' recent trade acquisitions, Ivica Zubac and Kobe Brown, were not yet available, with a lingering ankle issue potentially keeping Zubac out longer. The Bucks, on the other hand, faced their own challenges with key players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kyle Kuzma missing due to injuries. This win marks the Bucks' third against Indiana this season, a stark contrast to their recent playoff exits at the hands of the Pacers.
Looking ahead, the Bucks will travel to Orlando on Monday night, while the Pacers will face the Toronto Raptors on Sunday. The Bucks' recent form and the Pacers' ongoing adjustments make for an intriguing upcoming schedule.
