Damian Lillard etched his name into the annals of Milwaukee Bucks’ postseason history with a scintillating performance in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers on Sunday.
Lillard’s electrifying display saw him amass 35 points in the opening half, establishing a new standard for Bucks’ postseason scoring. His first-half explosion surpassed any previous individual performance by a Bucks player in playoff history. The existing mark for a single-game playoff scoring record remains held by Giannis Antetokounmpo, who notched 50 points in a pivotal Game 6 victory over the Phoenix Suns. With Antetokounmpo sidelined due to a strained left calf, the Bucks turned to Lillard as their primary offensive catalyst from the outset.
The six-time All-Star wasted no time in asserting his dominance, tallying 19 points in a breathtaking opening period, marking the highest individual first-quarter output in a playoff opener since records have been kept since at least 1997. By halftime, Lillard had amassed a staggering 38 points, eclipsing the highest individual first-half total in a playoff game since Kevin Durant’s 38-point explosion for the Golden State Warriors in a 2019 first-round matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Lillard’s imprint on the game was evident from the get-go, accounting for 16 of the Bucks’ first 20 points, all within the opening nine minutes. He punctuated his remarkable first quarter with a clutch step-back 3-pointer at the buzzer.
Lillard drew a crucial foul while sinking a 3-pointer, converting it into a four-point play that extended the Bucks’ lead to 30 points late in the first half.
The Portland Trail Blazers’ standout guard showcased remarkable efficiency throughout his historic first-half performance, shooting 11 of 19 from the field, including an impressive 6 of 10 from beyond the arc, and a flawless 7 of 7 from the free-throw line.
Lillard’s transcendent display not only propelled the Bucks to a commanding lead but also etched his name alongside the greats in postseason lore.
