Through two quarters at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Pacers trailed the defending NBA champions, 66-57.
As expected, Giannis Antetokounmpo carried the load for the Bucks early. The reigning Finals MVP attacked the rim in the opening minutes, scoring eight of Milwaukee's first 12 points and drawing two quick fouls on Pacers center Myles Turner.
Once Antetokounmpo subbed out for the first time, however, the Blue & Gold mounted a charge. Malcolm Brogdon, Oshae Brissett, and Jeremy Lamb all hit 3-pointers over an 11-4 Indiana run to take a 23-18 lead.
But All-Star forward Domantas Sabonis picked up his second foul at the 4:06 mark.