In a surprising turn of events on May 21, 2025, at Madison Square Garden in New York, the Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) managed to tie the game in the fourth quarter, forcing it into overtime against the New York Knicks during Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs. The Knicks, who had a comfortable 17-point lead in the fourth quarter, squandered their advantage, including a nine-point cushion with just 52 seconds left in regulation. The game took an unexpected twist as Haliburton made a deep two-pointer, reminiscent of Reggie Miller’s historic shot, to send the game into overtime.
The Pacers’ Aaron Nesmith played a crucial role in the final minutes of the fourth quarter, leading a 16-4 run with 15 points to help his team catch up. Haliburton shone throughout the game, scoring 31 points and providing 11 assists, while Nesmith contributed 30 points and made an impressive eight of nine three-point attempts, with five of them coming in the fourth quarter. Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau acknowledged the Pacers’ resilience, stating, “You can never let your guard down against them. No lead is safe.” The Pacers’ eight three-pointers in a playoff game set a new franchise record.
Despite a stellar performance by Jalen Brunson, the Knicks’ Clutch Player of the Year, who scored 43 points, including a 15-of-25 shooting from the field, the game took a heartbreaking turn for New York. In the final moments of overtime, Brunson missed a potential game-tying three-point shot, leading to the Pacers’ victory. The Knicks’ Karl-Anthony Towns, who scored 35 points at a 64.7% shooting accuracy, also fell short as his shot hit the front of the rim. The Pacers’ unexpected comeback marked a significant shift in momentum, leaving the Knicks to regroup for Game 2.
Thibodeau emphasized the need for quick adjustments and a thorough review of the game’s film to prepare for the upcoming match. The Knicks, who appeared to be in control for most of the game, will face the Pacers in Game 2 with a renewed focus on securing a win. The bench players, including Miles McBride and Mitchell Robinson, played crucial roles despite the disappointing outcome. Game 2 of the series is scheduled for Friday at 8 p.m. ET, promising another intense showdown between the two teams.
