The wait is over: the Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers meet again in a first-round series of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, and this time, the story promises to be very different. With Giannis Antetokounmpo back on the court and the possible return of Damian Lillard, the Bucks are looking to avenge last year’s early elimination.

The Miami Heat are still alive in the Play-In Tournament after a comfortable 109-90 win over the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday night. The standout performer was Tyler Herro, who scored 38 points and played a key role in sending his team to the next challenge: a Friday showdown against the Atlanta Hawks for the final playoff ticket in the East.

The Dallas Mavericks made a bold statement on Wednesday night by defeating the Sacramento Kings 120-106, led by an impressive performance from Klay Thompson, who scored 23 points, including 16 in a blazing second quarter that turned the tide. With this win, the Mavs move on to face the Memphis Grizzlies this Friday, fighting for the 8th seed in the West and a spot in the NBA Playoffs.

Jimmy Butler came to Golden State to shake things up… and that’s precisely what he’s doing. With 38 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists, Butler stole the spotlight and led the Warriors to a 121-116 win over the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA Play-In Tournament. Stephen Curry added 37 points and was clutch in the final seconds.

The Orlando Magic showed up to the Play-In Tournament hungry for victory. With an explosive performance off the bench from Cole Anthony, they defeated the Atlanta Hawks  120-95 and secured their spot in the first round of the NBA Playoffs, where they’ll face none other than the Boston Celtics.