Bucks Edge Pacers in Overtime Thriller
Friday, October 16, 2026, 7:00 PM ET · Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Milwaukee Bucks 128, Indiana Pacers 127, final. Our NBA picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.
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Quick answers
Who won Milwaukee Bucks vs Indiana Pacers?
Milwaukee Bucks beat Indiana Pacers 128-127 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on October 16, 2026.
Who was favored in Milwaukee Bucks vs Indiana Pacers?
Indiana Pacers were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -298 (about 75% implied). The underdog won.
In a nail-biting finish at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Milwaukee Bucks narrowly defeated the Indiana Pacers 128-127 in overtime. The game showcased the competitive spirit of both teams, with the Bucks managing to secure the win despite being on the road. This matchup was particularly significant as it marked the beginning of the series between the two teams, with the Bucks now holding a 1-0 advantage in the season's meetings.
The Pacers entered the game with a home record of 1-4 and a recent form that saw them struggling, having lost their last two games. They averaged 113.4 points scored and allowed 116.6 points in their last five outings. Their overall record stood at 1-3, and they were looking to turn their fortunes around against the Bucks. The Pacers' scoring average for the last ten games was 115.5, while they allowed an average of 117.3 points.
On the other hand, the Bucks came into the game with an away record of 2-3 and were also experiencing a rough patch, having lost their last two games. Their recent form reflected a similar trend, averaging 105.0 points scored and 119.6 points allowed in their last five games. Overall, the Bucks had a record of 2-3, with their scoring average over the last ten games at 108.3, while they allowed an average of 118.7 points.
In terms of injuries, the Pacers faced challenges with several players listed as day-to-day, including Jarace Walker, T.J. McConnell, and Aaron Nesmith, the latter dealing with a hamstring issue. Johnny Furphy was ruled out due to a knee injury. The Bucks also had key players in a similar situation, with Kevin Porter Jr., Nate Ament, and Gary Trent Jr. all listed as day-to-day, primarily due to rest.
The odds provided by DraftKings indicated the Pacers as 7.5-point favorites, with a total set at 234.5 points. The moneyline showed the Pacers at -298 and the Bucks at +240, reflecting a strong belief in the Pacers' ability to win at home despite their recent struggles.
The game conditions played a role, as the atmosphere in Gainbridge Fieldhouse was electric, with fans eager to witness a turnaround for the Pacers. As the game unfolded, it was clear that both teams were determined to secure a victory, leading to a tightly contested battle.
The scoring plays in overtime were particularly thrilling, with Kobe Brown making critical shots that kept the Bucks ahead. His 10-foot turnaround jump shot and driving layup were pivotal moments, while Braden Smith's contributions for the Pacers kept them in contention. The back-and-forth scoring highlighted the intensity of the matchup, with both teams showcasing their offensive talents.
Ultimately, the Bucks managed to outlast the Pacers in a game that will be remembered for its competitive nature and dramatic finish. As the series continues, both teams will look to adjust and improve based on this encounter, with the Bucks now holding the early advantage.
What we said beforehand
The upcoming NBA game between the Indiana Pacers and the Milwaukee Bucks promises to be an intriguing matchup, especially as both teams are currently struggling with their form. The game will take place at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on October 16, 2026, starting at 23:00 UTC. Both teams enter this fixture with identical records of 1-2 for the Pacers at home and 1-3 for the Bucks on the road, making this a crucial early-season contest.
In their last five games, the Indiana Pacers have recorded one win and four losses. Their most recent outing saw them lose to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a close overtime game, finishing 114-112. Prior to that, they lost to the Atlanta Hawks by a narrow margin of two points, 119-117. Their only victory in this stretch came against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where they won 123-112. Overall, the Pacers have averaged 113.4 points scored and allowed 116.6 points over their last five games.
Conversely, the Milwaukee Bucks have also struggled, winning just one of their last five games. They secured a narrow victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder, winning 128-126, but have since lost to the Chicago Bulls, 125-104, and the Charlotte Hornets, 105-90. Their scoring average in the last five games is 105.0 points, while they have allowed 119.6 points per game, indicating a defensive vulnerability that the Pacers may look to exploit.
Home court advantage could play a significant role in this matchup, as the Pacers have a home record of 1-4, while the Bucks have managed only one win in their last five away games, making their away record 1-4. The Pacers have averaged 115.5 points scored and allowed 117.3 points in their last ten home games, whereas the Bucks have averaged 108.3 points scored and 118.7 points allowed in their last ten away games.
Historically, the Bucks have had the upper hand in recent meetings, winning all four matchups in the current season. Their last encounter was on March 15, 2026, where the Pacers lost 123-134. The Bucks also defeated the Pacers 99-105 on February 7, 2026, and had earlier victories of 94-111 and 115-117 in December 2025 and November 2025, respectively. This trend could weigh heavily on the Pacers as they seek to break the streak.
In terms of injuries, both teams are dealing with key players listed as day-to-day. For the Pacers, Jarace Walker, T.J. McConnell, and Aaron Nesmith are uncertain due to undisclosed injuries and a hamstring issue, while Johnny Furphy is confirmed out with a knee injury. On the Bucks' side, Kevin Porter Jr., Myles Turner, AJ Green, and Ryan Rollins are all day-to-day due to rest, along with Nate Ament, who is dealing with an ankle injury. The status of these players could significantly impact the game’s dynamics.
The betting market, as provided by DraftKings, has the Pacers favored by 7.5 points, with a total set at 234.5. The odds for the over are -112, while the under sits at -108. The moneyline shows the Pacers at -298 and the Bucks at 240, indicating a strong belief in the Pacers' chances to win at home.
As the game approaches, viewers should watch for the performance of the Pacers' offense, which has shown flashes of brilliance despite their recent struggles. Additionally, the Bucks will need to tighten their defense to avoid another loss, especially given their recent inability to contain opposing scoring. With both teams eager to turn their fortunes around, this matchup could provide a compelling display of basketball.
Odds
| Book | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | IND -7.5 | 234.5 o -112 / u -108 | Milwaukee Bucks +240 · Indiana Pacers -298 |
Injury report
- Jarace WalkerDay-To-DayUndisclosedIndiana Pacers
- T.J. McConnellDay-To-DayUndisclosedIndiana Pacers
- Aaron NesmithDay-To-DayHamstringIndiana Pacers
- Johnny FurphyOutKneeIndiana Pacers
- Kevin Porter Jr.Day-To-DayRestMilwaukee Bucks
- Nate AmentDay-To-DayAnkleMilwaukee Bucks
- Gary Trent Jr.Day-To-DayRestMilwaukee Bucks
Leaders
- PointsPascal Siakam24Indiana Pacers
- AssistsAndrew Nembhard7Indiana Pacers
- ReboundsIvica Zubac11Indiana Pacers
- PointsTyler Herro25Milwaukee Bucks
- AssistsKasparas Jakucionis6Milwaukee Bucks
- ReboundsMyles Turner13Milwaukee Bucks
Recent form
Indiana Pacers
Last 10: 3-7Streak L2115.5 scored · 117.3 allowed per game1-4 at home
- L112-114at Oklahoma City ThunderOct 14
- L117-119vs Atlanta HawksOct 10
- W123-112vs Minnesota TimberwolvesOct 7
- L121-133vs Detroit PistonsApr 12
- L94-105vs Philadelphia 76ersApr 10
- W123-94at Brooklyn NetsApr 9
- L104-124vs Minnesota TimberwolvesApr 7
- L108-117at Cleveland CavaliersApr 5
- L108-129at Charlotte HornetsApr 3
- W145-126at Chicago BullsApr 2
Milwaukee Bucks
Last 10: 3-7Streak L2108.3 scored · 118.7 allowed per game1-4 away
- L104-125vs Chicago BullsOct 15
- L90-105at Charlotte HornetsOct 11
- W128-126at Oklahoma City ThunderOct 8
- L97-116vs Minnesota TimberwolvesOct 6
- L106-126at Philadelphia 76ersApr 12
- W125-108vs Brooklyn NetsApr 11
- L111-137at Detroit PistonsApr 8
- L90-96at Brooklyn NetsApr 7
- W131-115vs Memphis GrizzliesApr 5
- L101-133vs Boston CelticsApr 4
Standings
| Team | Games behind | Lost | Streak | Win % | Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit | - | 1 | W2 | .750 | 3 |
| Chicago | 1 | 2 | W1 | .500 | 2 |
| Milwaukee | 1.5 | 3 | W1 | .400 | 2 |
| Cleveland | 1.5 | 2 | L1 | .333 | 1 |
| Indiana | 2 | 3 | L3 | .250 | 1 |
Box score
| Stat | Milwaukee Bucks | Indiana Pacers |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 52-114 | 50-102 |
| Field goal % | 46 | 49 |
| Three-pointers | 17-52 | 16-48 |
| Three-point % | 33 | 33 |
| Free throws | 7-16 | 11-15 |
| Free throw % | 44 | 73 |
| Rebounds | 57 | 53 |
| Offensive rebounds | 19 | 12 |
| Defensive rebounds | 38 | 41 |
| Assists | 29 | 36 |
| Steals | 9 | 6 |
| Blocks | 4 | 7 |
| Turnovers | 15 | 21 |
| Team turnovers | 1 | 2 |
| Technical fouls | 1 | 1 |
| Technical fouls, total | 1 | 1 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Points off turnovers | 19 | 26 |
| Fast-break points | 16 | 18 |
| Points in the paint | 60 | 52 |
| Fouls | 21 | 16 |
| Largest lead | 6 | 19 |
| Lead changes | 13 | 13 |
| Time in front | 31 | 64 |
How the scoring went
- 3rd Quarter86-91Ousmane Dieng makes 2-foot floating jump shot (Kel'el Ware assists)
- 3rd Quarter86-93Quenton Jackson makes driving layup
- 3rd Quarter88-93Ousmane Dieng makes 11-foot fade away jump shot (Kevin Porter Jr. assists)
- 3rd Quarter90-93Kevin Porter Jr. makes 3-foot two point shot
- 4th Quarter90-95Quenton Jackson makes 10-foot two point shot (Kobe Brown assists)
- 4th Quarter92-95Brayden Burries makes 7-foot driving floating jump shot
- 4th Quarter92-97Larry Nance Jr. makes 15-foot turnaround jump shot (Quenton Jackson assists)
- 4th Quarter95-97AJ Green makes 27-foot three point step back jumpshot (Ousmane Dieng assists)
- 4th Quarter98-97Kevin Porter Jr. makes 28-foot three point step back jumpshot
- 4th Quarter98-100Kobe Brown makes 23-foot three point jumper (Quenton Jackson assists)
- 4th Quarter99-100Brayden Burries makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter101-100Brayden Burries makes 1-foot two point shot (Kasparas Jakucionis assists)
- 4th Quarter103-100Bogoljub Markovic makes two point shot
- 4th Quarter105-100Brayden Burries makes two point shot
- 4th Quarter105-102Keba Keita makes 1-foot dunk (Rienk Mast assists)
- 4th Quarter105-104Kobe Brown makes 1-foot driving dunk (Jalen Slawson assists)
- 4th Quarter107-104Kel'el Ware makes 3-foot dunk (Cormac Ryan assists)
- 4th Quarter110-104Cormac Ryan makes 29-foot three pointer
- 4th Quarter110-106Keba Keita makes 2-foot alley oop dunk (Braden Smith assists)
- 4th Quarter110-109Rienk Mast makes 23-foot three point jumper (Braden Smith assists)
- 4th Quarter110-111Jalen Slawson makes 2-foot layup (Braden Smith assists)
- 4th Quarter110-113Keba Keita makes 1-foot dunk (Braden Smith assists)
- 4th Quarter113-113Kam Jones makes 24-foot three point jumper (Kasparas Jakucionis assists)
- 4th Quarter113-114Kobe Brown makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter113-115Kobe Brown makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter114-115Cormac Ryan makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter114-116Kobe Brown makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter114-117Kobe Brown makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter115-117Kasparas Jakucionis makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter117-117Kel'el Ware makes 4-foot dunk (Kasparas Jakucionis assists)
- OT119-117Bogoljub Markovic makes 2-foot two point shot (Kasparas Jakucionis assists)
- OT122-117Bogoljub Markovic makes 27-foot three point jumper (Cormac Ryan assists)
- OT122-119Kobe Brown makes 10-foot turnaround jump shot
- OT122-121Kobe Brown makes driving layup (Braden Smith assists)
- OT122-123Braden Smith makes 8-foot driving floating jump shot
- OT124-123Kasparas Jakucionis makes driving layup
- OT124-125Keba Keita makes 6-foot driving floating jump shot
- OT126-125Kel'el Ware makes 2-foot dunk (Kasparas Jakucionis assists)
- OT128-125Kel'el Ware makes alley oop layup (Kasparas Jakucionis assists)
- OT128-127Keba Keita makes two point shot
Win probability
Above the line favours Indiana Pacers, below favours Milwaukee Bucks.
Venue
- Gainbridge FieldhouseIndianapolis, IN
- Attendance10283
- OfficialsMarc Davis, Derrick Collins, Pat O'Connell
Elsewhere
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Picks for NBA
NBA rules and settlement
These two, other days
- Bucks Defeat Pacers 110-102 in Close ContestOct 26, 2026
- Bucks Defeat Pacers 134-123 in Thrilling ContestMar 15, 2026
- Bucks Edge Pacers in Close Contest at Fiserv ForumFeb 6, 2026
- Bucks Defeat Pacers 111-94 in NBA MatchupDec 23, 2025
- Bucks Edge Pacers in Close Contest at Gainbridge FieldhouseNov 3, 2025