In a thrilling showdown in Indianapolis, Tyrese Haliburton emerged as the hero for the Indiana Pacers, converting a clutch three-point play with just 1.6 seconds remaining in overtime to secure a dramatic 121-118 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference first-round series.
Haliburton showcased his skills with a masterful display of ball handling, using a slick crossover to create separation from defender Patrick Beverley before calmly sinking a shot from the foul line. Adding to his stellar performance, Haliburton sealed the win with a free throw, capping off an impressive stat line of 18 points, 16 assists, and 10 rebounds.
Despite a scintillating 42-point performance from Milwaukee’s Khris Middleton, the Pacers found resilience and determination to overcome their opponents, fueled by a standout performance from Myles Turner, who contributed 29 points and nine rebounds. Pascal Siakam added 17 points and nine rebounds, further bolstering the Pacers’ efforts to seize a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series.
With Game 4 looming on Sunday in Indianapolis, the Pacers look to capitalize on their momentum and extend their advantage over the Bucks. Meanwhile, Milwaukee will aim to bounce back and even the series, as they continue their quest for postseason success without the services of two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, sidelined with a left calf strain.
In other playoff action, the Dallas Mavericks asserted their dominance with a convincing 101-90 victory over the visiting Los Angeles Clippers in Game 3 of their Western Conference first-round series. Luka Doncic led the charge with 22 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists, while Kyrie Irving’s late-game heroics propelled the Mavericks to a 2-1 series lead.
Elsewhere, the Minnesota Timberwolves made history by taking a commanding 3-0 series lead against the Phoenix Suns, securing a 126-109 victory on the road. Anthony Edwards delivered a standout performance with 36 points and nine rebounds, setting the stage for a potential sweep in Game 4 as the Timberwolves aim to advance in the playoffs for the first time in franchise history.