In what can only be described as one of the most electrifying finishes in recent NBA memory, the Indiana Pacers have pulled off a stunning comeback against the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals — and Aussie basketball fans will want to remember this one.
The Pacers, once trailing by 17 points late in the fourth quarter, stormed home on the back of a dramatic game-tying shot from star guard Tyrese Haliburton to force overtime, before eventually claiming a heart-stopping 138-135 win at Madison Square Garden.
It was a moment that had echoes of Reggie Miller’s infamous antics against the Knicks in the 1990s — and Haliburton wasn’t shy about acknowledging it.
The Shot That Shocked the Garden
With the Knicks leading 125-123 and just seconds remaining on the clock, Haliburton launched a deep prayer from beyond the arc. The ball kissed the back of the rim, flew high into the air and — somehow — dropped through the hoop, setting off absolute chaos.
For a moment, it looked like the Pacers had pulled off a last-second win. Haliburton even hit the iconic “choke” celebration made famous by Pacers legend Reggie Miller in that very arena. But upon review, it was revealed that Haliburton’s toes were on the line — it was ruled a two-pointer, sending the game into overtime.
Still, it was a moment of pure theatre. Knicks fans were left stunned, the noise inside Madison Square Garden fell to a hush, and the Pacers smelled blood.
A Fourth Quarter for the Ages
At one point in the final term, the Knicks led 111-94 — a commanding 17-point margin with just over six minutes to play. But basketball can be a game of wild momentum swings, and Indiana caught fire at just the right time.
The catalyst? Aaron Nesmith.
The Pacers’ forward erupted for 20 points in the fourth quarter alone, finishing the night with a blistering 30 points, including a ridiculous 8-of-9 shooting from three-point range. His long-range heroics ignited the team and brought them back into the contest.
It was one of those purple patches that sports fans live for — a player getting hot and riding the wave with unwavering confidence.
Haliburton Makes History
While Nesmith’s shooting display was eye-catching, Tyrese Haliburton was the steady hand steering the ship. The 24-year-old guard finished with 31 points and 11 assists, becoming just the second player in Pacers playoff history to post a 30-point, 10-assist game.
It’s yet another chapter in what’s been a breakout season for Haliburton, who has emerged as one of the league’s elite playmakers.
“Basketball is fun. Winning is fun,” Haliburton said during the post-game press conference, still buzzing from the result. “I’m so proud of the resilience of this group. We’ve had to win in so many different, random, unique ways — and today, we just kept going and fighting.”
A Dunk to Remember in OT
Overtime was a tense back-and-forth affair, but it was the Pacers who struck the killer blow thanks to a thunderous dunk from Obi Toppin with just 15.3 seconds remaining. The jam put Indiana up 138-135 and further rattled a shell-shocked Knicks side.
New York had two chances to tie the game in the final possession, but it just wasn’t their night.
Jalen Brunson’s three-point attempt missed everything — a complete airball — and although Karl-Anthony Towns secured the rebound, his rushed follow-up attempt grazed the front of the rim. The Pacers had survived. Just.
Pacers Make Playoff History
The victory marks Indiana’s fourth comeback win from 15 points or more in this year’s playoffs — tying a 25-year-old record set by the 2003 Dallas Mavericks.
It’s the kind of never-say-die attitude that has Aussie sports fans tipping their hats. Whether it’s AFL or NRL, Australians love an underdog comeback story — and the Pacers delivered in spades.
From a 17-point hole to a road win in one of the NBA’s most iconic venues, it’s a game that will go down in franchise folklore.
Haliburton’s Celebration Mix-Up
Haliburton’s celebration almost stole the show.
After what he believed was a game-winning three, he mimicked Reggie Miller’s infamous “choke” sign — aimed directly at the Knicks fans in the stands. It was a cheeky, confident move that was quickly walked back once the shot was ruled a two-pointer.
“I didn’t know how much time was left, so I just tried to gather myself and knock the shot down,” Haliburton said with a laugh. “I thought it was a three, I tried to hit the celly, and it didn’t work, but we finished it in overtime.”
He added that fans had been urging him to pull out the Miller celebration, but he was saving it for the right time.
“That felt appropriate... and then it went to overtime. So, we’re going to have to save it for later.”
What’s Next?
Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals is set to be another thriller, with both teams now well aware of what the other is capable of.
The Knicks will need to regroup quickly, especially after blowing a commanding lead and failing to convert at the free-throw line late in regulation.
Meanwhile, the Pacers head into the next clash full of belief. They’ve shown they can weather storms, hit big shots under pressure, and close out tight contests — all critical ingredients in a deep playoff run.
A Night to Remember
For Aussie hoops fans following the NBA playoffs, this game was a must-watch — the type of drama that keeps people glued to the screen. It had everything: a wild comeback, a clutch shot, overtime tension, and a dash of old-school rivalry.
Even without any Aussie players on the court, it was the kind of performance that captures the imagination and keeps basketball fans coming back for more.
Tyrese Haliburton and the Pacers have thrown down the gauntlet. This series is well and truly alive — and we can’t wait to see what comes next.
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Mitchell
Mitchell is a seasoned Ph.D. scholar with extensive expertise gained through years of rigorous research, publication, and teaching experience. He brings a wealth of knowledge and analytical skills to tackle complex academic challenges. His work is dedicated to delivering innovative solutions, advancing knowledge, and promoting academic excellence. Proficient in research methodology, data analysis, and scholarly writing, Mitchell has contributed to peer-reviewed journals and mentored students to achieve academic success.
