The Indiana Pacers are heading to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2000, but their path was anything but easy. In a high-stakes Game against the New York Knicks, the Pacers delivered when it mattered most, clinching the Eastern Conference title with a 125-108 victory in Indianapolis.
Pascal Siakam led the charge for Indiana, pouring in 31 points and earning the Larry Bird Trophy as Eastern Conference Finals MVP. Tyrese Haliburton added 21 points and assists, including points in the crucial fourth quarter, ensuring the Pacers never lost their grip on the game Obi Toppin also contributed points off the bench.
The Knicks, who had forced a Game after a dominant Game win at Madison Square Garden, struggled to keep up with Indiana’s relentless pace. OG Anunoby topped New York’s scoring with 24 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson added 22 and points, respectively. However, the Pacers’ defensive pressure forced Knicks turnovers, preventing any late comeback.
With this win, the Pacers advance to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Finals, starting Thursday, June 5th, at:30 p.m. ET The Pacers’ victory over the Knicks not only ended a 25-year Finals drought but also set the stage for what promises to be a thrilling championship series.
Fans left Gainbridge Fieldhouse celebrating, but as coach Rick Carlisle reminded everyone, “Our work has just begun.”.
