MILWAUKEE (AP) — Damian Lillard’s sensational start ensured the Milwaukee Bucks would fare just fine without Giannis Antetokounmpo in their playoff opener.
Lillard scored all 35 of his points before halftime and the Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Indiana Pacers 109-94 on Sunday while Antetokounmpo watched from the bench.
“I don’t think that it’s all on me but I know that I’ve got to be a little bit more aggressive and I’ve got to step forward a little bit more assertively,” Lillard said. “In the playoffs ... it’s about setting a tone. We’re going to see this team a lot of times, and you want to establish yourself, especially on your home floor. That was just my mentality, to come out and try to set the tone.”
The Bucks needed Lillard to step up without Antetokounmpo, whose return date is uncertain as he deals with a strained left calf that also caused him to miss Milwaukee’s final three regular-season games. Game 2 of the playoff series is Tuesday in Milwaukee.
Bill allowing parents to be fined for child's criminal offenses heads to Tennessee governor
Retired Principal Promotes 'Red Spirit' via Reading
Village Official Helps Farmers Escape Poverty by Growing Fruits, Vegetables
Tianjin, A City Where Historic Legacy, Modernity Come Together
Paris Hilton puts on a VERY leggy display in pink PVC dress as she shares new collaboration with Tan
Experts' views on Hangzhou Asian Games
Exploring 'Key to Green Development'
Artist Inherits, Promotes Kunqu Opera
Danny Mendick recalled, John Brebbia activated by struggling White Sox
Uygur Woman Shows Charm of Xinjiang Through Fabulous Dance
Greek and Turkish delegations meet in Athens as part of efforts to improve often strained ties
Tianmu Mountain: A Treasure Chest of Flora and Fauna