MILWAUKEE — The Milwaukee Bucks begin their quest for back-to-back championships Easter Sunday with their first round playoff series against their border rival, the Chicago Bulls. 

Excitement was in the air as fans got ready to sport new playoff gear and take part in all of the fun the Deer District has to offer. 

The Bucks rolled out their new playoff gear Friday. Some of the new pieces include hats and t-shirts celebrating the Bucks winning the Central Division Championship and competing in the 2022 NBA Playoffs.

“We couldn’t be more excited and thrilled to welcome everybody back to the Deer District,” said Michael Belot, senior vice president of Bucks ventures and development. “You want to commemorate this playoff run. Merchandise is going to go fast.” 

He said this is a record retail year for them and they’re expecting sales to go up. 

Fans from all across Wisconsin, such as Racheal Grenawalt and her children, spent their spring break on Friday in downtown Milwaukee ahead of Sunday’s game. 

“We just had to come check out the vibe for the game,” said Grenwalt. “It’s a beautiful area and the Fiserv Forum is beautiful.” 

For those fans without tickets or those who just want to enjoy a fun experience at the Deer District can do so this year at Punch Bowl Social. 

Travis Gunn, the general manager, said being closed last year was tough, but they’re excited to be open in time for the playoffs this year. 

“If the people of Milwaukee are anything, they’re passionate, especially about their sports.,” said Gunn. 

Fans from both teams can easily travel on I-94 for the series.

Bucks playoff watch parties will be held during every Bucks playoff game this year – both at home and on the road – with the first one scheduled for Game 1 of the Bucks’ first round series against the Bulls on Sunday, April 17.

The schedule for the Bucks’ First Round series against the Bulls is as follows: