Quick Read
- The Indiana Pacers defeated the New York Knicks 138-135 in overtime in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals.
- The Pacers overcame a 17-point deficit in the fourth quarter, scoring 23 points in the final three minutes of regulation.
- Tyrese Haliburton hit a buzzer-beating shot to force overtime, finishing with 31 points and 11 assists.
- Aaron Nesmith scored 30 points, hitting six three-pointers in the last five minutes of regulation.
- Game 2 is scheduled for Friday at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Pacers Triumph in a Dramatic Overtime Thriller
The Indiana Pacers delivered one of the most unforgettable comebacks in NBA playoff history on Wednesday night, defeating the New York Knicks 138-135 in overtime in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. The game, held at a packed Madison Square Garden, showcased the Pacers’ resilience and clutch performance, led by Tyrese Haliburton and Aaron Nesmith.
Historic Comeback in the Fourth Quarter
Trailing by as many as 17 points in the fourth quarter and down 14 with just under three minutes to play, the Pacers seemed all but defeated. Yet, the team mounted an extraordinary rally, scoring 23 points in the final three minutes and 14 seconds of regulation—a record-breaking performance in NBA playoff history. Aaron Nesmith was instrumental, sinking six three-pointers during this stretch, the most ever made in the fourth quarter of a playoff game.
As the seconds ticked down, Tyrese Haliburton emerged as the hero, hitting a buzzer-beating shot to tie the game. Initially celebrated as a three-pointer, the shot was downgraded to a two-pointer after a video review revealed Haliburton’s toe was on the line. Nonetheless, the basket forced overtime and kept the Pacers’ hopes alive.
Overtime Brings More Drama
In the extra period, the game continued its back-and-forth intensity. The Knicks briefly regained the lead through Jalen Brunson’s driving floater, but the Pacers answered with decisive plays from Andrew Nembhard and Obi Toppin. Haliburton finished the night with 31 points, 11 assists, and 4 rebounds, while Nesmith contributed 30 points, including his historic three-point barrage.
Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle praised his team’s determination. “We’ve shown all year that we can win in unconventional ways. Tonight was no different,” Carlisle said in the postgame press conference.
Knicks Fall Short Despite Strong Performances
For the Knicks, Jalen Brunson was outstanding, scoring 43 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 35 points and 12 assists. Despite their efforts, the team faltered in the closing minutes of regulation and overtime. Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau emphasized the need to regroup for Game 2, stating, “We need to learn from this and come back stronger. The series is far from over.”
Reggie Miller’s Legacy Revived
Adding a layer of drama to the night, Haliburton mimicked Pacers legend Reggie Miller’s infamous “choke” sign after hitting his buzzer-beater. Miller, who was calling the game for TNT, expressed his amusement, calling it “a full-circle moment.” Haliburton later admitted that he wouldn’t have celebrated had he known the shot was only worth two points, saying, “I might have wasted it.”
Looking Ahead to Game 2
The Pacers’ win gives them a 1-0 lead in the series, but both teams understand the battle is far from over. Game 2 is scheduled for Friday evening at Madison Square Garden, where the Knicks will aim to even the series and reclaim momentum.
With one of the most dramatic Game 1 victories in recent memory, the Pacers have set the tone for what promises to be an electrifying series. Fans can expect more high-stakes basketball as the Eastern Conference Finals continue.
Source: Nba, Yahoo Sports