The Indiana Pacers-Milwaukee Bucks series has been chippy thus far, growing more intense as the games develop.
Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton unveiled his true feelings toward his Wisconsin rivals after Game 2.
“We don’t have to sit here and act like it’s any secret,” Haliburton told ESPN’s Stephen Holder. “We don’t like them, they don’t like us and that’s just what it is. And I think they live for this, we live for this, so I could [not] care less. I’m out here just trying to help my team win a game.”
Haliburton was seen having some words with Bucks star Damian Lillard in Game 1, followed by a few in-game altercations in the second matchup Tuesday night. Haliburton had 21 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists in the victory, helping combat the late Bucks comeback. This rivalry dated back to last season, when Indiana held Giannis Antetokounmpo’s game ball after his career-high 64-point performance. Now, the two are facing off for the second consecutive postseason, building more history between the two.
Milwaukee played better in Lillard’s return, with elevated performances from Bobby Portis and Kyle Kuzma. However, they still need more consistent production from their starting unit for any hope of keeping their postseason alive. The slow starts and sloppy turnovers have put them in their hole against Indiana.
Giannis Antetokounmpo recognizes the urgency to win at home and avoid going down 3-0 in the series.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
“I feel like the mindset and approach that I have, being around in the locker, being around in the plane, being around in practice, watching film together, talking as a team, we know the deal,” Antetokounmpo said in the postgame interview.
The Bucks and Pacers add another chapter to the brewing rivalry Friday night.
MORE MILWAUKEE BUCKS NEWS
Bucks star Damian Lillard cleared for Game 2 against the Indiana Pacers
Bucks coach Doc Rivers reveals important update on Damian Lillard’s status for Game 2
