The New York Knicks, in their first Conference Finals game since 2000, fell to the Indiana Pacers, losing 138-135 in a chippy, physical overtime thriller.
In the first half, the Knicks shocked the world, somehow showcasing their depth, and in the second half, Jalen Brunson quickly got into foul trouble, restricting their star power.
To end regulation, Tyrese Haliburton hit a circus shot and thought it was a 3-pointer to win the game. After review, it was revealed that his foot was on the line, only sending the game to overtime.
As the shot rattled in, Haliburton hit the iconic “choke” pose made famous by Reggie Miller, although he didn’t quite seal the game, getting ahead of himself.
The Pacers would go on to win, ripping the heart out of Knicks fans’ chests.
TYRESE HALIBURTON TIES THE GAME AND DOES THE CHOKE TO MSG pic.twitter.com/IwbwGc8GWu
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) May 22, 2025
In overtime, Jalen Brunson and Andrew Nembhard traded shots, although the Pacers were able to rely more on the rest of their scorers, sealing a stunning Game 1 win.
New York was led by Brunson’s 43 points, with Karl-Anthony Towns adding 35 points on 11-17 shooting for good measure.
Indiana relied on Aaron Nesmith down the stretch, who finished with 30 points. Haliburton scored only four points in a lackluster first quarter, but was able to pick it up as the game progressed, scoring 31 points. Nesmith hit five 3-pointers in the fourth quarter, getting the Pacers back in the game.
The Pacers, who have a much deeper bench than the Knicks, were able to rely on TJ McConnell and Obi Toppin, who had clutch plays off the bench.
Jon Hamm playing tough courtside defense 😭 pic.twitter.com/0ztOQ4msRw
— House of Highlights (@HoHighlights) May 22, 2025
New York hasn’t hosted a playoff game this significant since 2000, and all the stars showed out. Actor Jon Hamm “stole” the ball from Haliburton in the first half, and the star was lobbying for the rarely-seen fan interference, as he believed it stopped a fast break.
Maybe Hamm will sit a few rows back during the next game as the Knicks look to bounce back on Friday.
Check out the All Knicks home page for more news, analysis, and must-read articles.
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