In an unforgettable Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Indiana Pacers pulled off one of the most improbable comebacks in recent NBA playoff memory, stunning the New York Knicks 138-135 in overtime at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday, May 21 (U.S. time).
Led by a heroic performance from Tyrese Haliburton, who nailed a wild game-tying jumper as the regulation buzzer sounded and poured in 14 crucial points in the final three minutes of the fourth quarter, the Pacers stole the victory from the jaws of defeat and now hold a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series.
From Collapse to Comeback: Pacers Overturn 14-Point Deficit in Final Minutes
With under three minutes remaining in regulation, Indiana trailed 121-107, and the Knicks faithful were already celebrating what seemed to be a secure Game 1 victory. But the Pacers had other plans. Sparked by a flurry of clutch three-pointers from Aaron Nesmith and relentless team defense, Indiana went on a remarkable 17-3 run to close regulation.
The moment of the night belonged to Haliburton. With seconds remaining, he launched an off-balance, high-arcing jumper that bounced off the back of the rim, soared into the air, and then softly dropped through the net just as the buzzer sounded — sending the game to overtime and the crowd into stunned silence. In an emotional nod to Pacers legend Reggie Miller’s iconic “choke” taunt at Spike Lee in 1994, Haliburton mimicked the gesture as he ran toward the sideline, igniting memories of one of the NBA’s fiercest rivalries.
Pacers Ice the Game in Overtime
Overtime proved to be a test of poise and composure, and Indiana passed with flying colors. After exchanging baskets with the Knicks, Andrew Nembhard gave the Pacers the decisive edge with a smooth layup with just 26 seconds left. New York had two chances to respond, but Jalen Brunson missed a contested jumper, and Karl-Anthony Towns misfired on a last-second three-point attempt that could have forced another overtime.
The Knicks’ collapse was as shocking as it was devastating. They had led by 17 points midway through the fourth quarter after a dominant 19-3 run and looked fully in control. Brunson finished with a game-high 43 points and 5 assists, while Towns posted 35 points and 12 rebounds. But their efforts fell short in the final stretch when it mattered most.
Haliburton Shines, Nesmith Surprises, Pacers Deliver
Haliburton, the night’s clear standout, ended the game with 31 points and 11 assists, showcasing his leadership and clutch gene. Nesmith delivered a surprising but vital contribution, scoring 30 points — including 12 in the intense final minutes — to help fuel the rally. Myles Turner added 14 points, while TJ McConnell brought energy off the bench with 10 points.
The Pacers’ resilience in Game 1 was more than just impressive — it was historic. This marked Indiana’s fourth comeback win from a deficit of 15 or more points in this postseason alone, tying the 2003 Dallas Mavericks for the most such wins in the last 25 years of playoff basketball.
Haliburton on the Moment: “We Just Kept Fighting”
Speaking to reporters after the game, Haliburton shared his excitement and pride in his team’s never-say-die attitude.
“Basketball is fun. Winning is fun,” Haliburton said. “I’m just really proud of this group’s toughness. We’ve had to win games in a lot of different, weird, and unique ways. Tonight, we just kept fighting. And man, this one was special.”
When asked about his dramatic game-tying shot and celebratory gesture, Haliburton explained, “I didn’t know exactly how much time was left. I just tried to get a clean shot off and hoped it would fall. I thought it was a three-pointer at first. I wanted to do the Reggie Miller celebration — everyone’s been asking me to do it — but I didn’t want to waste it too early. It just felt right at that moment.”
Knicks Face Must-Win Game 2
The defeat was particularly bitter for New York, as they were attempting to protect a five-game home playoff win streak and ride the energy of the Garden crowd. The ghosts of last season’s Game 7 loss to Indiana have returned to haunt them — perhaps more painfully this time.
With Game 2 set for Friday night, also in New York, the pressure has shifted heavily onto the Knicks. A second straight loss at home would send the series to Indiana with the Pacers holding a commanding lead — and all the momentum.
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