Pascal Siakam delivered a standout performance as the Indiana Pacers secured their first NBA Finals appearance in 25 years by defeating the New York Knicks.
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The Indiana Pacers, with a significant contribution of 31 points from Pascal Siakam and a well-rounded performance including a 21-point double-double from Tyrese Haliburton, clinched a 125-108 victory over the New York Knicks. This win granted the Pacers their first NBA Finals berth since their last appearance in 2000.
On Saturday, the Pacers utilized a strong third quarter to establish a commanding lead and maintained their dominance in the fourth period, ultimately winning the Eastern Conference finals 4-2.
This achievement marks the Pacers’ second trip to the championship series in franchise history, with their sights now set on capturing their first NBA title at the NBA Finals set to commence in Oklahoma City on Thursday.
Despite the Knicks’ efforts to extend the series with a strong defensive performance in Game 5, they were unable to force a decisive Game 7 and remain in pursuit of their first finals appearance since 1999.
Pascal Siakam, named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the Eastern Conference finals after overcoming a disappointing Game 5, highlighted the team’s resilience and belief in each other, which was key to their victory.
Tyrese Haliburton, despite initial shooting difficulties, contributed 21 points and 13 assists, with seven Pacers players scoring in double figures. This included a 18-point bench performance from Obi Toppin and 11 points from Thomas Bryant, as the Pacers’ reserves outscored the Knicks’ 38-20.
OG Anunoby paced the Knicks with 24 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 22 points and 14 rebounds, and Jalen Brunson scored 19 points with seven assists.
The Pacers, leading in a tightly contested first quarter, never trailed again. They capitalized on 18 Knicks turnovers, which resulted in 34 points for Indiana.
Haliburton, scoreless in the first quarter, hit eight points in the second, including a memorable dunk after a steal by teammate Andrew Nembhard.
In the third quarter, the Pacers used a 9-0 run to expand their lead. Despite a brief comeback by the Knicks, the Pacers extended their advantage and entered the fourth quarter leading 92-77.
Haliburton contributed an additional 11 points in the final quarter as the Pacers comfortably secured the win, showcasing their journey to the finals
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2025/6/1/siakam-pacers-beat-knicks-in-game-6-to-reach-nba-finals?traffic_source=rss
