Pacers Stun Knicks with Overtime Comeback in Game 1

In a remarkable turn of events, the Indiana Pacers rallied from a 14-point deficit with just 2:51 remaining in regulation to secure a 138-135 overtime victory against the New York Knicks in Game 1 of their playoff series. The Pacers' victory at Madison Square Garden marks their third comeback win of the 2025 playoffs from a deficit of seven or more points in the final 50 seconds, a feat unmatched since the 1996-97 season.

Key Moments

• Late Deficit: The Pacers trailed by as many as 17 points in the fourth quarter but managed to close the gap in the final minutes.
• Aaron Nesmith's Hot Streak: Aaron Nesmith ignited the Pacers' comeback, sinking six 3-pointers in the last five minutes of regulation. Nesmith finished the game with 30 points.
• Haliburton's Clutch Shot: Tyrese Haliburton hit a game-tying jumper at the buzzer to send the game into overtime. He ended the game with 31 points and 11 assists.
• Overtime Victory: The Pacers outscored the Knicks 13-10 in overtime to seal the win. Obi Toppin and Andrew Nembhard made key baskets in the extra period.

Game Details

The Pacers' offense showcased ball and player movement, with all five starters averaging between 14.6 and 18.8 points per game through the first two rounds. Indiana scored 23 points in the final 3:14 of regulation, setting a play-by-play era record for the most points scored in that span of a playoff game. The Knicks led 994-0 historically when leading by at least 14 points with under three minutes to play.

Quotes

Obi Toppin, a former Knicks player, noted the Pacers' resilience, stating, "We’ll play until that final whistle blows, until that last buzzer sounds". Haliburton, after the game, said, “If I had known it was a two, I wouldn’t have done it,” referring to his game-tying shot.

What's Next

The Pacers and Knicks will face off in Game 2 on May 24.