The Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis is gearing up for a high-stakes clash on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, as the Indiana Pacers take on the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 2 of the first round of the NBA playoffs. Following a commanding 117-98 victory in Game 1, the Pacers aim to solidify their lead in the series, while the Bucks look to even the score before heading back to Milwaukee.
Featuring stars like Tyrese Haliburton and Giannis Antetokounmpo, this matchup has captured the attention of basketball fans worldwide, with accessible broadcasts and high demand for tickets in Indiana. The rivalry, fueled by recent encounters, sets the stage for a tactical and physical battle, with coaches Rick Carlisle and Doc Rivers pulling out all the stops.
Fresh off their Game 1 triumph, the Pacers showcased their offensive prowess and defensive discipline. Led by Haliburton, who ranked third in the league with 9.2 assists per game during the regular season, Indiana thrives on speed and ball movement to outmaneuver opponents. Pascal Siakam, with 25 points in the opener, proved his playoff pedigree, while the home crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse turned the arena into a fortress. The Pacers’ faithful, known for their unwavering support, are expected to create an electrifying atmosphere, putting pressure on the Bucks from tip-off.
Meanwhile, the Bucks face significant hurdles. With Damian Lillard ruled out for Game 2 due to a blood clot that has sidelined him since March 18, the team leans heavily on Giannis Antetokounmpo, whose dominance on both ends of the court is unmatched. The Greek star, the only player in NBA history to average 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists across three consecutive seasons, needs consistent support from Brook Lopez and Khris Middleton to turn the tide. The Game 1 loss exposed defensive vulnerabilities, and Doc Rivers must recalibrate to counter Indiana’s dynamic offense.
Basketball fans in Brazil and beyond can catch Game 2, which tips off at 8:00 PM Brasília time, through multiple platforms. The NBA League Pass offers live streaming with English and Portuguese commentary, along with real-time stats and replays. Alternatively, Amazon Prime Video provides high-quality broadcasts compatible with smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. For those seeking a lively viewing experience, sports bars in cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Belo Horizonte are likely to screen the game, fostering a vibrant atmosphere for NBA enthusiasts.
Both teams bring distinct styles to the court, with the Pacers emphasizing speed and the Bucks relying on physicality. Injuries and last-minute adjustments could shake up the starting fives. Indiana Pacers: Tyrese Haliburton, Andrew Nembhard, Aaron Nesmith, Pascal Siakam, Myles Turner. Coach: Rick Carlisle. Milwaukee Bucks: Taurean Prince, Andre Jackson Jr., Khris Middleton, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Brook Lopez. Coach: Doc Rivers. The Pacers are without Isaiah Jackson, sidelined for the season with a torn Achilles tendon, which weakens their frontcourt depth. Ben Sheppard is questionable with a toe injury, but Haliburton, despite minor muscle discomfort, is expected to play.
The Bucks, meanwhile, must navigate Lillard’s absence, shifting playmaking duties to Taurean Prince. Giannis, who missed games late in the regular season due to injury, is cleared but will be monitored. The Pacers-Bucks rivalry has intensified in recent years, particularly after Indiana’s six-game victory over Milwaukee in the 2024 playoffs. Historically, the Bucks hold a 76-40 edge in regular-season and playoff matchups. However, the Pacers dominated the 2024-25 regular season series, winning three of four games, including a 132-97 rout. This recent success boosts Indiana’s confidence, as their fast-paced, transition-heavy style disrupts Milwaukee’s defense.
The current series, structured in a 2-2-1-1-1 format, is expected to be tightly contested, with oddsmakers slightly favoring the Pacers due to home-court advantage and roster depth. The teams’ performances heading into Game 2 provide insight into their current momentum. The Pacers are riding a hot streak, winning eight of their last nine games since early April, including 16 of their last 19 home games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The Bucks, despite an eight-game win streak to close the regular season, have struggled defensively without Lillard, a weakness exposed in Game 1.
Tyrese Haliburton is the Pacers’ catalyst, blending elite playmaking with timely scoring. Averaging 18.6 points and 9.2 assists in the regular season, he’s complemented by Pascal Siakam’s playoff experience and Myles Turner’s rim protection. For the Bucks, Giannis Antetokounmpo remains the focal point, with MVP-caliber stats that make him a matchup nightmare. Khris Middleton’s perimeter shooting and Brook Lopez’s defensive presence are critical to Milwaukee’s success. The Haliburton-Giannis duel will be a highlight, with the Pacers’ guard aiming to control the tempo and the Bucks’ star dominating the paint. The contributions of supporting players like Siakam and Middleton could swing the game’s outcome.
Indianapolis is set for pleasant weather on Tuesday, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C and partly cloudy skies. These conditions are ideal for fans heading to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, where pre-game festivities, including fan zones and giveaways, will enhance the experience. The arena, renowned for its raucous crowds, is expected to be sold out, with tickets priced between $40 and $250, available via the Pacers’ official website. The home crowd played a pivotal role in Game 1, creating a hostile environment that rattled the Bucks. For Game 2, fans are planning choreographed chants and displays to further energize the Pacers, making the atmosphere a key factor in the contest.
The NBA has assigned a seasoned officiating trio for Game 2, led by James Capers, with Sean Corbin and Kevin Cutler as side judges. Capers, known for his no-nonsense approach, maintains tight control over games, averaging fewer technical fouls in Pacers-Bucks matchups. This selection suggests a smoothly run game, though the physicality of the matchup could lead to contentious calls. With intense battles expected in the paint between Giannis and Turner, the officials’ ability to manage physical play will be critical. The crew’s experience should ensure consistency, but players must stay composed to avoid penalties.
Analysts give the Pacers the edge in Game 2, citing their Game 1 performance and home-court advantage. The absence of Lillard tilts the scales further, forcing the Bucks to rely on tactical adjustments. Betting platforms like Betnacional list the Pacers as favorites with 1.50 odds, compared to 2.55 for the Bucks, reflecting confidence in Indiana’s form. The game is projected to be high-scoring, given the 229.1-point average in recent Pacers-Bucks clashes. Haliburton is tipped to exceed 20 points, while Giannis is expected to lead in rebounds and scoring. The Pacers’ three-point shooting and the Bucks’ transition defense will be decisive factors.
The Pacers-Bucks series is among the most competitive in the first round, with Game 1 setting the tone for a fierce battle. Indiana’s confidence is high, but Milwaukee’s resilience, driven by Giannis, cannot be underestimated. Player health, including Sheppard’s status and Lillard’s absence, will shape the outcome. A Pacers win in Game 2 could put the Bucks in a deep hole, while a Milwaukee victory would level the series and shift momentum. Fans in Brazil, tuning in via streaming platforms, are in for a thrilling ride as the series unfolds.
