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MILWAUKEE (AP) — Gary Trent Jr. capitalized on his infrequent opportunity to start.
In an impressive performance, Trent tied a franchise playoff record by sinking nine 3-pointers and achieving a personal playoff best with 37 points, driving the Milwaukee Bucks to a 117-101 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Friday night during Game 3 of their first-round playoff series.
Having started only nine of the 74 games he participated in this season, Trent discovered he would be starting just the day before, on Thursday morning.
“My focus was simply to come in and secure a win. We understand the stakes if we had dropped this game,” Trent explained. “Every single day, in every game, I aim to contribute significantly on both ends of the floor.”
He quickly made an impact by sinking two long-range shots to give the Bucks an early advantage, a welcome change after their struggles in Game 2 where they never held a lead.
Trent’s shooting prowess helped keep Milwaukee competitive in the first half, even after he briefly exited with a left shin bruise. However, with his teammates struggling from beyond the arc, the Bucks found themselves trailing by ten points at halftime, facing a restless home crowd.
In the second half, Trent continued to shine as Milwaukee began to rally. He hit three 3-pointers early in the third quarter to level the score at 62, continuing his hot streak amidst chants of his name from the electrified crowd.
Finishing the night at 9-for-12 from 3-point range, Trent equaled Hall of Famer Ray Allen’s Bucks record for the most 3-pointers in any playoff game.
“It’s truly a blessing and reflects all the hard work I’ve put in,” Trent remarked. “As a child, I looked up to Ray Allen and admired all the incredible things he achieved as a Buck.”
His backcourt partner, Damian Lillard, had been an advocate for the Bucks to bring Trent on board during the offseason, recognizing his ability to excel in crucial moments.
“I told the team that when they were pursuing Gary, that he’s one of the most self-assured players I’ve had the pleasure of playing with,” Lillard stated. “He’s incredibly resilient and has a strong will. He doesn’t back down, and when crucial moments arise, he rises to the occasion.”
Lillard wasn’t surprised by Trent’s standout performance.
“When he plays like he did tonight, it reaffirms just how much confidence he has in himself,” he shared. “This kind of game is expected from him, especially when we needed it most.”
Giannis Antetokounmpo, who also scored 37 points, acknowledged Trent’s comprehensive impact on the game. They became the first teammates in Bucks history to score 35 or more points in a playoff match.
“Gary had an outstanding game, excelling not only offensively but also defensively,” Antetokounmpo praised. “He really set the tone.”
