The New York Knicks suffered a heartbreaking overtime loss to the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, with Tyrese Haliburton and the Pacers capitalizing on a late-game collapse. The Knicks led by as many as nine points in the fourth quarter but faltered down the stretch, allowing Indiana to force overtime and ultimately secure a 121-117 victory at Madison Square Garden.
The loss has sparked intense reactions, particularly after Haliburton made a controversial "choke" gesture toward the Knicks' bench—a nod to Reggie Miller's infamous taunt in the 1995 playoffs. New York's media didn’t hold back, with headlines mocking the Knicks for letting the game slip away.
Game Recap: How the Knicks Let Game 1 Slip Away
Knicks Dominate Early, But Pacers Rally Late
The Knicks started strong, with Jalen Brunson (26 points, 6 assists) and Donte DiVincenzo (25 points) leading the charge. New York’s defense stifled Indiana early, holding the Pacers to just 23 points in the first quarter. However, the Pacers’ high-octane offense, led by Tyrese Haliburton (30 points, 8 assists) and Pascal Siakam (26 points, 12 rebounds), slowly chipped away at the lead.
Despite the Knicks leading 94-85 with under six minutes left, Indiana went on a 14-4 run to tie the game. A crucial Andrew Nembhard three-pointer with 16 seconds left sent the game to overtime, where the Pacers outscored the Knicks 14-10 to seal the win.
Haliburton’s "Choke" Gesture Sparks Controversy
After hitting a clutch three in overtime, Haliburton mimicked Reggie Miller’s infamous "choke" sign—a direct jab at the Knicks’ late-game struggles. The moment immediately went viral, with New York newspapers blasting the Knicks for the collapse.
ESPN: "Knicks acknowledge they 'let off the gas' late."
Yahoo Sports: "New York newspapers had a field day riffing on Haliburton's choke gesture: 'Choke's on Knicks.'"
CNN: "Tyrese Haliburton and Indiana Pacers stun New York Knicks in overtime."
Key Stats & Performances
Jalen Brunson: 26 PTS, 6 AST (but shot just 10-of-26)
Tyrese Haliburton: 30 PTS, 8 AST, 5 3PM (clutch shots in OT)
Pascal Siakam: 26 PTS, 12 REB (dominant inside presence)
Aaron Nesmith: 12 PTS, lockdown defense on Brunson late
Why Did the Knicks Collapse?
1. Fatigue Caught Up With Them
The Knicks’ short rotation, with OG Anunoby (hamstring) still sidelined, appeared gassed in the fourth quarter. Josh Hart played 48 minutes, while Brunson logged 46. Indiana’s deeper bench (led by T.J. McConnell) exploited New York’s tired legs.
2. Poor Late-Game Execution
The Knicks went scoreless for nearly three minutes late in regulation, settling for contested jumpers instead of attacking the rim. Meanwhile, Indiana relentlessly pushed the pace, scoring 21 fast-break points.
3. Haliburton Outplayed Brunson in Crunch Time
While Brunson struggled with efficiency, Haliburton delivered in the clutch—scoring or assisting on 15 of Indiana’s final 21 points. His step-back threes and playmaking were the difference.
Reggie Miller’s Legacy Looms Large
The "choke" gesture brought back memories of Miller’s legendary 8-points-in-9-seconds performance in the 1995 playoffs. Miller, now a TNT analyst, praised Haliburton’s swagger but warned: "The series isn’t over. The Knicks will respond."
What’s Next for Game 2?
Knicks Adjustments: Tom Thibodeau must manage minutes better and find ways to counter Indiana’s transition offense.
Pacers’ Confidence: Indiana has home-court advantage now and will look to take a 2-0 lead before heading back to Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Key Matchup: Can Brunson bounce back, or will Haliburton continue his dominance?
Final Thoughts
Game 1 was a brutal reminder that playoff series are won in the details. The Knicks had control but let it slip, while the Pacers showed why they’re the NBA’s highest-scoring team. If New York doesn’t tighten up its late-game execution, this could be a short series.
Game 2 tips off Wednesday night at MSG. Will the Knicks respond, or will the Pacers deliver another knockout punch?
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Let us know your thoughts in the comments: Did the Knicks choke, or was this just Indiana’s night? 🏀🔥
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