The 2025 Eastern Conference Finals tipped off with an electric Game 1, featuring the Pacers vs. Knicks showdown, and it didn’t disappoint. The Indiana Pacers pulled off a jaw-dropping comeback to defeat the New York Knicks 138-135 in overtime at Madison Square Garden. But what truly stole the show wasn’t just the scoreboard—it was Tyrese Haliburton’s iconic celebration, channeling none other than Reggie Miller’s infamous choke sign, reigniting one of the NBA’s most legendary rivalries.
Reggie Miller’s Legacy Lives On Through Haliburton
Flashback to 1994—Reggie Miller stunned New York with a series of clutch shots and an unforgettable gesture: the choke sign aimed at Knicks superfan Spike Lee. Fast forward to 2025, and Tyrese Haliburton revived that very moment in the Pacers vs. Knicks game after drilling a buzzer-beating two-pointer to tie the game and force overtime.
Although he thought it was a game-winning three, Haliburton still seized the moment to ignite the MSG crowd—and social media exploded.
Historic Collapse by the Knicks
The Knicks were in full control, leading by 14 with under three minutes to play. But in one of the most stunning collapses in NBA playoff history, they let it slip. According to ESPN, NBA teams were 994-0 when leading by 14+ with 3 minutes or fewer left in regulation—until now.
Aaron Nesmith knocked down five threes in the fourth quarter, and Andrew Nembhard nailed the go-ahead layup in OT. The Pacers’ bench erupted. New York was stunned by the confrontation in this epic Pacers vs. Knicks match.
Knicks stats:
- Jalen Brunson: 43 points
- Karl-Anthony Towns: 35 points
- 5 turnovers in the final 2 minutes
Why This Rivalry Still Matters
The Knicks vs. Pacers rivalry is more than just basketball—it’s personal, it’s emotional, and it’s deeply rooted in 90s NBA history. When Reggie Miller made Madison Square Garden his stage, he became a villain New York loved to hate.
Now, Tyrese Haliburton has stepped into that role in the Pacers vs. Knicks drama.
This series isn’t just about reaching the NBA Finals—it’s about legacy. It’s about trash talk, clutch shots, and unforgettable gestures that fans will replay for decades.
What’s Next in the Series?
Game 2 is set for Friday night at Madison Square Garden. Expect the crowd to be loud and the intensity to rise. The Knicks need to bounce back mentally and clean up late-game execution if they hope to even the series.
Meanwhile, as the Pacers vs. Knicks saga continues, the Pacers will ride the wave of momentum led by Haliburton’s swagger and leadership.
Conclusion
Tyrese Haliburton’s tribute to Reggie Miller was more than a celebration—it was a statement. The Pacers aren’t just here to play; they’re here to win, and they’re not afraid to get under New York’s skin doing it. With Game 1 in the books, one thing is clear: this isn’t just another playoff series—it’s a revival of the historic Pacers vs. Knicks rivalry, one of the greatest NBA rivalries in history.
