MILWAUKEE, 07 February 2026 – The Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers renewed their intense Central Division rivalry on Friday night at Fiserv Forum, marking their first meeting since a transformative NBA trade deadline. In a season where both teams have struggled to find consistency, the matchup provided a glimpse into their new-look rosters following significant roster shake-ups.
Recent Matchup and Season Series
The Bucks hosted the Pacers on Friday, 6 February 2026, in a contest that highlighted the current trajectory of both franchises. Entering the game, Milwaukee held a 19-29 record, while Indiana sat at 13-38. Despite their records, the games between these two remain highly competitive.
This was the third meeting of the 2025-26 regular season. Milwaukee has dominated the series this year, previously defeating Indiana 117-115 on 3 November 2025, followed by a convincing 111-94 victory on Christmas Eve. Kevin Porter Jr. has emerged as a key figure for the Bucks in these matchups, particularly in the absence of veteran leadership during various stretches of the season.
Trade Deadline Impact
The landscape of this rivalry shifted significantly just 48 hours before tip-off. The Indiana Pacers were active at the trade deadline, acquiring centre Ivica Zubac and guard Kobe Brown from the Los Angeles Clippers. To secure the veteran big man, the Pacers parted ways with Bennedict Mathurin and Isaiah Jackson.
While Zubac’s debut was delayed due to a lingering ankle issue, his arrival signals Indiana’s intent to bolster their interior presence. On the Milwaukee side, the biggest news was the “non-move”: despite rampant speculation, Giannis Antetokounmpo remained with the Bucks through the deadline, quelling immediate fears of a mid-season exit for the franchise cornerstone.
Head-to-Head History
The historical data reflects a long-standing battle for dominance in the Eastern Conference. Milwaukee currently holds the upper hand in the all-time regular-season standings.
| Category | Milwaukee Bucks | Indiana Pacers |
|---|---|---|
| All-Time Regular Season Wins | 120 | 97 |
| Total Games Played | 217 | |
| 2025-26 Season Record (as of 7 Feb) | 19-29 | 13-38 |
| Current Win Streak (Head-to-Head) | 3 (Bucks) | 0 |
Public Sentiment and Rivalry Intensity
The “animosity” between these two squads remains a focal point for fans. Following the Pacers’ elimination of the Bucks in the 2025 playoffs, the relationship between the rosters has been described as frosty. Public insights from platforms like Reddit suggest that while the Pacers are currently rebuilding around Tyrese Haliburton, fans still view the Bucks as their primary “counter matchup.” Conversely, Bucks supporters remain anxious about the team’s long-term direction, with many noting that the future looks “bleak” if the current roster cannot find a winning rhythm post-deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the last game between the Bucks and Pacers?
The Milwaukee Bucks hosted the Indiana Pacers on Friday, 6 February 2026. Prior to that, the Bucks won their previous encounter on 24 December 2025, with a score of 111-94.
Did Giannis Antetokounmpo get traded?
No. Despite significant trade rumours leading up to the February 2026 deadline, Giannis Antetokounmpo remained with the Milwaukee Bucks.
What was the Pacers’ big move at the 2026 trade deadline?
The Indiana Pacers acquired centre Ivica Zubac and Kobe Brown from the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for Bennedict Mathurin and Isaiah Jackson.
What is the all-time record between these two teams?
The Milwaukee Bucks lead the all-time regular-season series 120-97 against the Indiana Pacers.