How the Pacers Pulled Off a Comeback Never Seen Before in NBA History
Game 1 of the 2025 Eastern Conference finals between the Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks will be remembered by basketball fans for a long time after one of the most unbelievable comebacks in NBA history.
Entering Wednesday night, teams leading by at least 14 points in the final 2:45 of the fourth quarter had been 994-0 since play-by-play tracking began in 1997-98. After the Knicks’ 138-135 overtime loss to the Pacers, those teams are now 994-1.
The Indiana Pacers pulled off a historic comeback against the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Down by 14 points with less than three minutes remaining, the Pacers defied the odds and secured an improbable victory, stunning Knicks fans and rewriting NBA history. This article delves into the key moments, performances, and strategic decisions that fueled the Pacers’ remarkable turnaround.
This game will be remembered for decades, and this article analyzes how the Pacers defied history, and what we can expect going into Knicks vs Pacers Game 2.
Knicks’ Early Domination
Before the comeback could begin, New York first needed to take a substantial lead. Starting when star guard Jalen Brunson went to the bench with his fifth foul, the Knicks somehow pulled off a 14-0 run to go up 108-92 with 7 minutes and 24 seconds to go. That run was punctuated by a peak New York sequence: a rugged defensive stop leading to a layup on the other end.
The Knicks’ surge seemed insurmountable, showcasing their defensive prowess and offensive efficiency. The Pacers faced a daunting challenge as they struggled to contain New York’s momentum.
The Knicks established a commanding lead through a combination of stifling defense and efficient offense. Jalen Brunson’s playmaking and scoring were pivotal, while their role players stepped up to contribute key baskets. However, the Pacers remained resilient, setting the stage for a dramatic shift in the game’s narrative.
Nesmith’s Heroic Performance
The Indiana comeback truly began in earnest with 4:45 left on the clock — that was when guard Aaron Nesmith hit his first 3-pointer of the quarter to cut the lead to 113-101. After the teams traded buckets, Nesmith hit another three with 3:14 to go, only for Brunson and Tyrese Haliburton to trade long balls on the next two possessions. With 2:04 left in regulation, Nesmith hit his third 3-ball of the quarter to make it a 119-111 game.
Nesmith’s scoring outburst ignited the Pacers’ offense and provided the spark they desperately needed. His ability to knock down crucial shots injected belief into his teammates and shifted the momentum of the game.
Aaron Nesmith emerged as the catalyst for the Pacers’ comeback, delivering a sensational performance in the fourth quarter. His relentless energy, timely three-pointers, and clutch free throws propelled Indiana back into contention, leaving Knicks fans in disbelief. His impact extended beyond scoring, as his defensive intensity and hustle plays energized the entire Pacers team.
Haliburton’s Clutch Shot
That meant, with roughly seven seconds to go, the Pacers only trailed 125-123, and that set up this absolutely bonkers shot by Haliburton — who tried to win the game with a three, only for his toe to be on the line.
Haliburton’s ability to create space and knock down a contested two-pointer showcased his composure and skill under pressure. Despite the initial disappointment of the shot being a two, it set the stage for a thrilling finish.
Tyrese Haliburton’s clutch shot in the dying seconds of regulation epitomized his poise and leadership. Despite the pressure, Haliburton delivered a game-tying basket that sent the game into overtime, sending shockwaves through Madison Square Garden. His performance reaffirmed his status as a rising star in the NBA.
Overtime Thriller
New York still had the mental fortitude to take an early lead in overtime, opening up a 4-point advantage with a little over three minutes to go. That deficit was nothing for the Pacers, though, who immediately stormed back yet again. The defining stretch came in the final minute of overtime, when Indy twice trailed by 1, but both times scored after beautiful ball movement.
The Pacers’ resilience and execution in overtime highlighted their determination to complete the comeback. Their ability to make crucial plays in the game’s final moments demonstrated their mental fortitude and composure.
The overtime period was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows in a desperate attempt to secure the victory. The Pacers displayed remarkable composure, executing their offensive sets with precision and making timely defensive stops. Their collective effort and unwavering belief ultimately propelled them to a historic win.
Key Takeaways
The Pacers’ improbable comeback against the Knicks serves as a testament to their resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in their abilities. Aaron Nesmith’s explosive performance, Tyrese Haliburton’s clutch shot, and the team’s collective effort in overtime were instrumental in their historic victory.
The Pacers’ victory will be etched in NBA lore as one of the greatest comebacks of all time. Their ability to overcome a seemingly insurmountable deficit and emerge victorious underscores the unpredictable nature of basketball and the importance of never giving up.
As the series shifts to Indianapolis for Game 2, the Knicks will seek to regroup and respond to the Pacers’ challenge. Expect adjustments in strategy, increased intensity, and a renewed focus on maintaining their lead. The Pacers, meanwhile, will aim to build on their momentum, replicate their strong play, and capitalize on their home-court advantage.
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