In a thrilling Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals, Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton celebrated what he believed was a game-winning 3-pointer by mimicking Reggie Miller’s famous choke gesture from 31 years ago at Madison Square Garden, only to find out later that the shot was deemed a two-pointer after a review. Haliburton expressed mixed feelings about the premature celebration, noting, “If I would have known it was a two, I would not have done it.”
The game itself, which the Pacers won 138-135 in overtime, featured spectacular comebacks, exceptional shooting, and intense competition, reigniting the historic rivalry between the Pacers and the New York Knicks. This rivalry peaked in the 1990s when the teams met multiple times in the playoffs, and it has rekindled in recent years with high-stakes matchups and emotional moments. Knicks legend Latrell Sprewell remarked on the excitement of facing the Pacers again, underscoring the historic significance of the rivalry.
Historical context shows that this matchup has included iconic moments like John Starks’s headbutt on Reggie Miller in 1993 and Miller’s choke sign directed at Spike Lee in 1994. The intensity of these games, as noted by Pacers coach Rick Carlisle, is what makes the competition fierce and memorable.
Haliburton and Knicks star Jalen Brunson also shared a lighthearted rivalry during a summer WWE event, demonstrating the blend of camaraderie and competition. Haliburton believes that while they are honoring the past, they are also crafting their own narrative, promising that the current rivalry will be meaningful for fans moving forward.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
