The Indiana Pacers played Game 1 of their conference finals series against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. As the game progressed, fans experienced a thrilling array of moments. However, Tyrese Haliburton’s exuberant celebration really took center stage, capturing the attention of social media users everywhere.
The Knicks held a commanding 14-point lead with only three minutes remaining in the contest. However, in an electrifying turn of events, the Pacers delivered a powerful performance that dramatically sliced the Knicks’ advantage down to a mere two points.
As the clock ticked down to the final seconds, Tyrese Haliburton emerged as the hero of the night. He drove fiercely toward the lane but quickly retreated to the three-point line, seemingly poised to clinch the victory. His shot soared, hitting the back of the rim and catapulting comically high into the air, before splashing through the net, sending the game into overtime.
Reggie Miller tried to quickly hide him pointing at Tyrese Haliburton from the cameras after Haliburton produced an even bigger, dramatic comeback in a Playoff Game 1 vs the Knicks than Reggie did 30 years ago in the Garden.
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@TWDTV1 pic.twitter.com/x1Dd75KVig
— Andrew Jerell Jones, Luke 1:37 (BlueSky too now) (@sluggahjells) May 22, 2025
In a thrilling display of celebration, Haliburton clutched his neck, echoing the legendary ‘choke’ gesture popularised by Reggie Miller during the 1994 playoffs. Meanwhile, as the Pacers enjoyed their moment, Miller was seen pointing at Haliburton, though he quickly tried to conceal his gesture.
Tyrese Haliburton’s Performance In Game 1 Against The Knicks
Haliburton had an outstanding performance throughout the game, not just in the late moments. He played for 42 minutes, scoring 31 points, and also recorded 11 assists and four rebounds. Aaron Nesmith also made significant contributions, adding 30 points and two rebounds in his 38 minutes on the court.
Pascal Siakam positively impacted the game as well, scoring 17 points, along with six assists and five rebounds. Haliburton’s clutch plays in the final moments helped push the game into overtime, where the Pacers showcased their dominance. Ultimately, the Pacers won with a final score of 138-135. They will play Game 2 of the series at Madison Square Garden.