NBA Eastern Conference Finals: Pacers take Game 1 in OT after stunning comeback against Knicks

The Indiana Pacers pulled off a stunning comeback in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Finals, overcoming a 17-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the New York Knicks 138–135 in overtime at Madison Square Garden on Thursday, May 22 (Philippine Standard Time).

The Knicks appeared in control, leading by 17 in the fourth quarter and still ahead by eight with 90 seconds remaining. But Aaron Nesmith caught fire late, draining five clutch three-pointers in the final minutes to bring the Pacers back into the game.

With 7.3 seconds left and the Pacers down two, Tyrese Haliburton hit a near-three that tied the game. A video review confirmed his foot was on the line, forcing overtime instead of sealing the win in regulation.

CAN’T COUNT US OUT 😱#PacersWin pic.twitter.com/zI2ONZOu9r

— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) May 22, 2025

Haliburton and Nesmith combined for 61 points, with Haliburton also contributing 11 assists and four rebounds. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 43 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 35 points and 12 rebounds.

Both teams entered the conference finals riding emotional comebacks, and Game 1 proved to be no different. All eyes are now on Game 2, scheduled for Saturday, May 24 (PHT), at Madison Square Garden.

Key Stats:

Most Points: Jalen Brunson (43 in 38 minutes)

Most Assists: Tyrese Haliburton (11 in 42 minutes)

Most Rebounds: Josh Hart (13 in 44 minutes)

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