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Watch: Tempers flare after Pacers-Bucks game

Originally posted on Ball Exclusives | By Titan Frey | Last updated Apr 30, 2025 2:45 PM ET

The Indiana Pacers took care of business in Game 5 against the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite being outscored 30-13 in the first quarter, the Pacers battled back and won 119-118 in overtime, thanks to Tyrese Haliburton’s heroics.

After the game, tempers flared between the two teams. The main player in the mix was Giannis Antetokounmpo. He first was seen jawing with Haliburton’s father, and later the two teams all scuffled.

Here’s the reason why Giannis Antetokounmpo went after Tyrese Haliburton’s Dad.

Completely inexcusable behavior from a fan and father. Under no circumstances should this ever happen, yet alone in a first round matchup.
pic.twitter.com/kQJ0lLLsNQ

— Adam Bartoshevich (@adambarto20) April 30, 2025

Drama at the end of the Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks

(h/t @IQfor3)pic.twitter.com/L2N3QOU8nW

— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) April 30, 2025

After the game, Haliburton’s father released a statement apologizing to the 2021 NBA champion.

“I sincerely apologize to Giannis, the Milwaukee Bucks, and the Pacers organization for my actions following tonight’s game. This was not a good reflection on our sport or my son, and I will not make that mistake again.”

I sincerely apologize to Giannis, the Milwaukee Bucks and the Pacers organization for my actions following tonight's game. This was not a good reflection on our sport or my son and I will not make that mistake again.

— John Haliburton (@PapaHaliburton) April 30, 2025

Antetokounmpo also apologized after the game.

“Losing the game, emotions ran high,” Antetokounmpo said. “Having a fan, who, at the moment, I thought was a fan, but then realized he’s Tyrese’s father. Coming onto the floor and showing me his son’s face on a towel like, ‘This is what we effing do.’ I feel like that’s very, very disrespectful.”

Giannis believes in being humble in victory. pic.twitter.com/GYEXyHoXUu

— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) April 30, 2025

The Pacers now move on to face the top team in the East, the Cleveland Cavaliers. As for the Bucks, they’ll have to work on their relationship with Antetokounmpo, as the rumor mill already has “The Greek Freak” leaving and playing elsewhere next season.

This article first appeared on Ball Exclusives and was syndicated with permission.

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