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.
