Sunday night’s NBA playoff game proved to be a spectacle of strategy, skill, and a bit of sideline snark, as the Indiana Pacers emerged victorious against the New York Knicks. With a decisive 130-109 win in Game 7, the Indiana Pacers didn’t just secure their spot in the next round—they reignited one of the sport’s most heated rivalries.
Basketball Hall of Famer Reggie Miller, known for his sharp tongue and sharper shooting, couldn’t resist commenting on the outcome, taking to Instagram to celebrate the Indiana Pacers’ triumph and deliver a cheeky farewell to the Knicks.
Reggie Miller’s post encapsulated the turning point of the series: “When the series CHANGED!!” he exclaimed. Referring to the Knicks’ earlier win in Game 2, where Josh Hart famously mimicked him, Miller’s post continued with a mix of commendation and playful jibe.
“Jalen Brunson, you’re a true BALLER, been the best player in these playoffs, but you and your boys can all heal up together on some beautiful beaches in Cancun, please enjoy!!” This epitomized the banter and rivalry that has long characterized encounters between these two teams.
The Knicks’ Battle Against Odds and Injuries
The Knicks faced an uphill battle from the onset, hampered by significant injuries. Key players Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson were sidelined even before the series began, and the situation worsened when OG Anunoby sustained a hamstring injury by Game 2, followed by Josh Hart with an abdominal injury.
The culmination of misfortunes was evident when Jalen Brunson, despite his stellar performance throughout the playoffs, fractured his left hand in the final game.
Reflecting on the season, Brunson expressed a mix of pride and disappointment: “I’m proud of what we were able to do this year and the way we fought. Obviously, the outcome is not what we wanted.” His sentiment echoed through the team as Anunoby, despite scoring in Game 7, admitted the physical limitations he faced, “I was trying. I couldn’t really sprint, I couldn’t really jump, but I wanted to try my best.”
Indiana Pacers’ Celebration and the Echoes of a Rivalry
The Indiana Pacers’ celebration was not just about their win but also a nod to their illustrious past, with star player Tyrese Haliburton donning a Reggie Miller-inspired sweatshirt featuring the iconic image of Miller with his hands around his neck—a reminder of the fierce competition and mind games that are trademarks of this rivalry.
Donte DiVincenzo, who led the Knicks with 39 points in the final game, summed it up: “There’s only so much you can overcome,” acknowledging the spirit of his teammates who stepped up against the adversity.
This series not only highlighted individual brilliance and collective resilience but also underscored the dramatic flair inherent in the NBA playoffs. As the Indiana Pacers advance, they carry not only the joy of victory but also the legacy of a rivalry enriched with each encounter, ensuring the Pacers-Knicks narrative continues to captivate and entertain.
