In a thrilling overtime showdown, the Indiana Pacers stunned the New York Knicks with a dramatic 138-135 victory in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, marking their first win in the East Finals since 2004. The game swung wildly in the final minutes, showcasing incredible plays and relentless determination from both teams.
The Pacers, facing a daunting 14-point deficit with just 2:35 left in regulation, clawed their way back, fueled by a barrage of three-pointers from Nismith and an electrifying performance from Tyrese Haliburton, who scored 31 points and dished out 11 assists. In a tense overtime period, the teams exchanged leads seven times, with each possession echoing the stakes of playoff basketball.
With 18.9 seconds remaining and Indiana trailing by one, a successful challenge turned the tide for the Pacers, allowing them to regain possession. In a dramatic turn, the Pacers capitalized on the Knicks’ defensive lapses, with Nismith sinking crucial shots to push Indiana ahead.
As the clock wound down, the Knicks desperately sought to tie the game. Jalen Brunson, despite battling foul trouble, and Karl-Anthony Towns attempted to rally but ultimately fell short. A frantic scramble for the ball in the final seconds ended with Indiana retaining possession, sealing their hard-fought victory.
This game not only sets the tone for the series but also highlights the Pacers’ resilience and shooting prowess. The stage is set for what promises to be an electrifying Eastern Conference Finals as Indiana takes an early lead. Fans can expect more heart-stopping moments as both teams vie for supremacy in this high-stakes playoff battle.