The 2025 Eastern Conference Finals feature a nostalgic matchup reminiscent of the 1990s rivalry between the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers. As these two storied franchises clash once again, they bring with them not only a rich history but also fresh tensions that have reignited their competitive spirit. Historically, the Knicks and Pacers have met in the postseason eight times, including six encounters within an eight-year span. The last time New York contended for a spot in the NBA Finals was in 2000, when they fell to the Pacers in a hard-fought six-game series.
One of the most memorable moments in this fierce rivalry occurred during Game 5 of the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals. Legendary Pacers guard Reggie Miller made headlines with his infamous choking gesture aimed at Knicks fan Spike Lee after scoring an astonishing 25 points in the fourth quarter, leading the Pacers to a dramatic comeback victory. Fast forward to Game 1 of the 2025 series, and current Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton paid homage to that iconic moment. After hitting a game-tying basket that sent the game into overtime, Haliburton replicated Miller's choke celebration, pointing directly at Miller, who was broadcasting the game for TNT.
The Knicks and Pacers faced off in the Eastern Conference Semifinals last season, a series that Indiana won in a thrilling seven-game showdown. This victory reignited a rivalry that dates back to 1993, showcasing the competitive nature and intensity between the two teams. In Game 7, held at the Madison Square Garden, the Pacers delivered a decisive 130-109 victory, shooting an astonishing 67% from the field. Haliburton led the charge with an impressive performance, contributing 26 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds.
After the Game 7 victory, Haliburton made headlines by donning a special hoodie featuring Miller's iconic choking gesture directed at Spike Lee during his post-game podium appearance. While he acknowledged the significance of the moment, Haliburton downplayed the tribute, stating, "I mean, I'm just wearing a hoodie. I like to be comfy on the plane." His playful banter and daily text exchanges with Miller highlight the modern-day connection within this storied rivalry.
As the 2023-24 NBA season concluded for the Pacers with a sweep by the Boston Celtics in the conference finals, Haliburton reflected on his fourth NBA campaign via an Instagram post showcasing his fashionable outfits throughout the season. Knicks guard Josh Hart offered a humorous critique of Haliburton's fashion choices, leading to a light-hearted exchange between the two players. Hart's commentary came while he assisted in ESPN's coverage of the NBA Finals, further fueling the competitive atmosphere between the teams.
Just over a month after their basketball rivalry heated up, Haliburton and Knicks star Jalen Brunson found themselves in a different arena altogether. During a WWE SmackDown event at Madison Square Garden, Haliburton, a known fan of professional wrestling, entered the ring alongside celebrity Logan Paul. Spotting Brunson in the crowd, the two engaged in a brief but intense stare-down. As the match unfolded, Haliburton attempted to assist Paul with brass knuckles, only for Brunson to step in and confront him. The two exchanged heated words and were briefly face-to-face before officials intervened, heightening the drama of their rivalry.
With both historical and contemporary elements fueling their competitive spirit, the Knicks vs. Pacers rivalry continues to captivate basketball fans. As the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals unfold, all eyes will be on these two teams as they battle not only for a chance at the NBA Finals but also to settle their long-standing beef.
