Pacers Clinch NBA Finals Spot with Dominant Win over Knicks
By Michael Marot, Associated Press | May 31, 2025
INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Pacers secured a spot in the NBA Finals for the second time in franchise history after a commanding 125-108 victory against the New York Knicks in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Saturday night. Pascal Siakam led the charge for the Pacers with a stellar 31-point performance, supported by Tyrese Haliburton’s 21 points and 13 assists. Obi Toppin also shone against his former team, contributing 18 points and six rebounds.
The victory was marked by a lively crowd, as fans including Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson and WNBA star Caitlin Clark packed the arena, celebrating the Pacers’ success. With this win, Indiana will face the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of the Finals on Thursday night.
The Knicks, who have not reached the Finals since 1999, were led by OG Anunoby with 24 points. Karl-Anthony Towns had a double-double with 22 points and 14 rebounds, while Jalen Brunson added 19 points. The evening was rife with tension, characterized by physical play and nine total lead changes before Indiana broke away with a strong start to the second half. Their relentless ball pressure forced the Knicks into committing 17 turnovers.
Former Pacers star and Hall of Famer Reggie Miller, part of the 1999-2000 Finals team, provided commentary during the game, adding sentiment to the franchise’s historic moment. The Knicks’ hopes of becoming the 14th team to overcome a 3-1 playoff series deficit fell short.
As Indiana prepares for their Finals showdown, fans await a thrilling culmination to the season.
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