Gary Trent Jr. Bucks Game 3 win will be remembered for years in Milwaukee, as he erupted for 37 points and tied a franchise playoff record to lead the Bucks to a critical 117-101 victory over the Indiana Pacers, trimming Indiana’s series lead to 2-1.
Gary Trent Jr. Bucks Game 3 Win Ignites Milwaukee’s Comeback
Inserted into the starting lineup to provide defense against Tyrese Haliburton, Gary Trent Jr. instead became the offensive spark Milwaukee desperately needed:
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37 points (13-of-21 FG, 9-of-15 from three)
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Tied Ray Allen’s Bucks playoff record for most threes in a postseason game
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Set the tone early and kept the Bucks in control throughout
“It’s a blessing,” Trent said. “When the opportunity comes, it showcases itself.”
Game 3 Highlights: Bucks Adjust, Pacers Struggle
Milwaukee Bucks:
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Gary Trent Jr.: 37 points, 9 threes
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Giannis Antetokounmpo: 37 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists
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Bobby Portis: Energy and rebounding boost off the bench
Indiana Pacers:
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Tyrese Haliburton: 14 points, 10 assists
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Pascal Siakam: 21 points, faded late
The Bucks outscored Indiana by 21 points in the third quarter — their biggest playoff quarter margin since the 2021 Eastern Conference Finals.
Coaching Adjustments Behind the Gary Trent Jr. Bucks Game 3 Win
Doc Rivers revamped the rotation:
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Benched Taurean Prince
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Gave Bobby Portis and AJ Green extended minutes
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Reduced Brook Lopez and Kyle Kuzma’s roles
Even with Damian Lillard struggling (2-of-12 shooting), Milwaukee’s defensive focus and rebounding overwhelmed Indiana.
What’s Next
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Game 4: Sunday night in Milwaukee
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Series Status: Pacers lead 2-1
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Focus: Bucks aiming to ride the Gary Trent Jr. Bucks Game 3 win momentum to even the series
The Bucks rediscovered their energy — and potentially their formula for surviving this first-round fight.
