Antetokounmpo sits, Lillard returns as Bucks face Pacers in Game 6 of playoff series

Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard watch from the bench during the first half of Game 5 of the NBA playoff basketball series Tuesday, April 30, 2024, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo sat out Thursday’s Game 6 of the first-round playoff series between the Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers, but eight-time All-Star Damian Lillard returned to the court for the Bucks after missing the previous two games.

Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard watch from the bench during the first half of Game 5 of the NBA playoff basketball series Tuesday, April 30, 2024, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)

Antetokounmpo and Lillard had been considered game-time decisions, and both went through pregame workouts before Milwaukee determined their playing status.

Antetokounmpo has not played since straining his left calf on April 9 and had been listed as doubtful. Lillard was upgraded to questionable Thursday. He missed the two previous games after aggravating a right Achilles tendon injury.

The Pacers led the series 3-2 and needed one win to reach the Eastern Conference semifinals for the first time since 2014.

Milwaukee staved off elimination with Tuesday’s 115-92 victory in Game 5 without Antetokounmpo or Lillard.

___

AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA