In a jaw-dropping start to the Eastern Conference Finals, the Indiana Pacers stunned the New York Knicks 138-135 in Game 1 at Madison Square Garden. Down by 14 with under three minutes remaining, the Pacers mounted one of the most electrifying comebacks in NBA playoff history.
Aaron Nesmith torched the Knicks’ defense with a franchise playoff record eight three-pointers, six of them coming in the final quarter alone. He exploded for 20 of his 30 points in the last five minutes, delivering clutch shot after clutch shot.
Tyrese Haliburton was the heartbeat of the squad, nailing a dramatic buzzer-beater to force overtime and energize the Pacers’ bench. His iconic gesture—echoing Reggie Miller’s infamous choke sign—sent a clear message to Knicks fans: Indiana came to win.
This marked the Pacers’ third major comeback of the postseason, solidifying their reputation as one of the clutchest teams this year.
Event Details:
Matchup: Indiana Pacers vs New York Knicks
Game: Eastern Conference Finals – Game 1
Final Score: Pacers 138, Knicks 135 (OT)
Venue: Madison Square Garden
Date: May 21, 2025