The Indiana Pacers displayed their resilience once more in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Facing a significant 116-102 deficit with less than four minutes remaining in regulation, the Pacers orchestrated a remarkable 23-9 run to not only force overtime but to ultimately secure a thrilling 138-135 victory.

In a dramatic finish, Tyrese Haliburton's potential game-winning shot at the buzzer was nullified due to a toe on the line, but the Pacers utilized the momentum, emerging victorious in overtime thanks to crucial contributions from Obi Toppin and Andrew Nembhard. The Knicks attempted to respond with three-point shots from Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns that could have led to double-overtime but fell short, sealing a stunning win for Indiana.

Haliburton's 31 points and 11 assists highlighted his role as a key player, but the performance of Aaron Nesmith was equally crucial, finishing with 30 points and shooting 8-of-9 from beyond the arc. Nesmith's shooting prowess was on full display, particularly in the closing minutes of regulation, where he hit six three-pointers, contributing significantly to Indiana’s remarkable comeback. This triumph echoes the Pacers' previous playoff performances, where they showcased their ability to stage comebacks, having already eliminated the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round and outlasting the Cleveland Cavaliers in a dramatic Game 2 of the second round. The loss was particularly painful for the Knicks, who witnessed standout performances from Brunson, who scored 43 points and provided five assists, and Towns, with 35 points and 12 rebounds, both of whom could not secure a win despite their efforts. The Pacers' victory sets the tone for the series, leading heading into Game 2 on Friday.