In an epic comeback the Indiana Pacers dramatically came back from a nine-point deficit less than one minute to go in the 4th quarter. Their crowning achievement included pulling off a shocking 138-135 upset against the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals. This phenomenal recovery helped lift the Pacers to a much-needed, important victory. It was more than just a great game; in fact, it was historic in several ways.
Coming into this game, the deck was really stacked against the Pacers. They were 0-1,414 all-time before coming back from a nine-point deficit in the last minute of regulation or overtime. Tyrese Haliburton and crew made it happen, forcing overtime with a gorgeous late-game half-court two-pointer as time expired to tie it up. Haliburton’s clutch shot drew immediate comparison to the legacy of former Pacers star Reggie Miller. Miller happened to be at Madison Square Garden that night, doing color commentary for TNT. Haliburton even went so far as to mime Miller’s classic choke-pointing celebration after hitting the game-winning shot.
The Knicks raced out, opening up a nine-point lead. With only 58.8 seconds remaining in regulation, the game suddenly flipped on its head. The Pacers proved their stay-in-it, fight-to-the-last qualities in a dazzling home-court victory. This win is the first playoff victory since 1998 for any team that erased a nine-plus point deficit in the last minute of the fourth quarter or overtime. ESPN Research found that this is an almost unheard of achievement. It’s a mark that has not been accomplished by any other NBA playoff team since 1998.
Unsurprisingly, this victory becomes the third such instance this postseason where the Pacers have come out on top after trailing by seven or more points in the last minute. This is where their winning attitude and fighting spirit really comes alive! This remarkable come-from-behind win is merely the latest exciting episode in the fierce, legendary rivalry between the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks. These two teams have a great history of hard fought playoff series.
All eyes turn now to Thursday’s Game 2 in the Eastern Conference finals. It’s scheduled once again for Friday night at Madison Square Garden, and the two teams are looking forward to another electric battle. The Pacers now look to continue their momentum from this landmark victory adding onto their 2018 win. For their part, the Knicks will have a chance to reconvene and battle to recover from their gut-wrenching defeat.
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