The Indiana Pacers shocked the New York Knicks on Wednesday night, winning Game 1 138-135 in overtime despite trailing by as many as 17 points in the fourth quarter.
In the final seconds, Tyrese Haliburton hit a game-winning 3-pointer, hit the iconic Reggie Miller "choke" pose, and gloated all over the court before a review revealed that it was, in fact, a 2-point shot.
Nevertheless, the Pacers would go on to win in overtime.
Tyrese Haliburton
May 21, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) reacts after tying the game in the fourth quarter to send the game to overtime against the New York Knicks during game one of the Eastern Conference Finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden.
© Brad Penner-Imagn Images
While Jalen Brunson led all scorers with 43 points, Haliburton took over in the final minutes, outplaying the Clutch Player of the Year when it mattered most.
To fans, he certainly looked like a superstar, although noted Knicks fan Stephen A. Smith didn't see things that way.
"I think he's a damn good player," praised Smith before turning sour.
"I think that he's a star in this league, but superstar status is reserved for the select few, and I don't view him that way. However, I know that he shows up in the clutch moment. He deserves our credit. He's a big-time player. I like him a lot. I've always said that, so I don't have to worry about how I'm being perceived in terms of what I've had to say about him, because I've always celebrated him."
Before the series started, Smith called Haliburton "not a superstar" and is likely just doubling down on his claim. However, if the Pacers beat the Knicks and advance to the Finals, it will be hard for Smith to backtrack.
After sealing a game in Madison Square Garden and having an iconic individual moment, it's hard not to give Haliburton his flowers, although Smith is certainly trying.
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