The Indiana Pacers clinched a spot in the NBA Finals for the first time since 2000 with a 125-108 win over the New York Knicks, closing out the Eastern Conference Finals in six games.
The matchup was a closely contested battle until the Pacers pulled away in the final quarter. As they have throughout the postseason, Pascal Siakam and Tyrese Haliburton led the charge, finishing with 31 and 21 points respectively. Siakam’s performance — his third 25+ point game of the series — earned him the Larry Bird Trophy as the Eastern Conference Finals MVP.
Reflecting on his journey with the team, Siakam shared his appreciation for the support he’s received since arriving in Indiana. “It’s been an amazing experience from the first day. The love here is incredible. After a tough Game 5, we came in determined. I believe in my teammates — we always find a way.”
The game also marked a turning point in broadcasting history, as it was the final NBA game aired by TNT. Although “Inside the NBA” will move to ESPN, the NBA’s long-standing run on TNT came to a close after the conference finals.
Both teams stayed close in the first half despite the Knicks’ persistent turnover issues. A quick 9-0 scoring run by Indiana to open the third quarter — highlighted by three straight three-pointers — created separation. The home crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, which included WNBA star Caitlin Clark, fueled the Pacers to the finish.
Haliburton praised the team’s resilience. “We didn’t like how we played last game, so this was about responding. I’m really proud of this group. We’ll enjoy this win for now — but we know there’s more work ahead.”
Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns struggled to find rhythm against Indiana’s aggressive defense. Towns finished with 22 points and 14 rebounds, while Brunson managed 19 points. The Knicks committed 17 turnovers, six of which were forced by Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard.
New York made several attempts to rally but couldn’t overcome Indiana’s momentum. The Knicks fell short in their bid to become just the 14th team in NBA history to come back from a 3-1 series deficit.
This loss marks another chapter in the storied Knicks-Pacers rivalry. Despite making it to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000, the Knicks once again fell to a longtime foe.
Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau acknowledged the challenges his team faced throughout the season, from injuries to roster changes. “I’m proud of what these guys accomplished. There were a lot of obstacles, but they kept pushing.”
Brunson expressed frustration with the result but confidence in the team’s future. “It sucks. But I’m completely confident in this group. No doubt in my mind.”
Towns echoed that sentiment, saying the team’s goal was to win. “We’ve got great guys in the locker room. The plan now is to get back here and finish the job.”
The Pacers now prepare to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder, who are heading to their second-ever NBA Finals appearance. Game 1 tips off Thursday at Paycom Center.