(Getty Images)
owns and Brunson Shine in Comeback Win
Karl-Anthony Towns led the charge, scoring 20 of his 24 points in the fourth quarter alone. He also grabbed 15 rebounds, making a huge impact down the stretch. Jalen Brunson contributed 23 points and played a key role despite spending much of the closing minutes on the bench due to foul trouble. Both Towns and Brunson battled foul trouble throughout the game, but their efforts were crucial in turning the game around. Their performance helped the Knicks cut their series deficit to 2-1.
Knicks' Team Chemistry Proves Key
Jalen Brunson praised the Knicks' teamwork after the game. “We’re built on a great team, great chemistry, great togetherness,” he said. Brunson admitted it was tough watching from the sidelines but expressed full confidence in his teammates.
The Knicks' ability to stay composed and work together under pressure showed why they are such a dangerous playoff team this year.
Pacers’ Early Lead Fades Despite Strong Start
Indiana looked strong early in the game. Tyrese Haliburton led the Pacers with 20 points and six assists, while Myles Turner added 19 points. The Pacers held a 55-35 lead late in the second quarter and even extended their advantage to 68-52 early in the third.
The game was played on the same day as the Indianapolis 500, and the Pacers embraced the occasion. Team officials handed out “Vroom Baby” T-shirts in gold and blue to celebrate the rare doubleheader of Pacers basketball and the famous race. Alex Palou, the race winner from Spain, was honored with a standing ovation during the second quarter.
Knicks’ Rally Turns the Tide
Despite the Pacers’ strong start, the Knicks refused to give up. They outscored Indiana in the third quarter, cutting the gap to 80-70 by the end of the period. In the fourth, Towns and Brunson took over. Brunson’s basket with 7:10 remaining gave New York its first lead of the night at 89-88.
The Knicks then held on, never allowing Indiana to lead again. The final margin was just six points, with the Knicks sealing the win on free throws with 2.6 seconds left.
Historic Comeback Highlights Knicks’ Resilience
Karl-Anthony Towns reflected on his big fourth quarter. “When I got the chance, I made sure to seize the opportunity,” he said. “I just wanted to give our team the chance to win. I’m happy I was able to do that.”
This win cements the Knicks' place in NBA history. They are now the first team ever to complete three separate 20-point comebacks in one postseason. Earlier in the playoffs, New York erased similar deficits against the Boston Celtics in the conference semifinals.
Looking Ahead: Game 4 in Indianapolis
The series continues with Game 4 scheduled for Tuesday night in Indianapolis. The Pacers will look to bounce back and even the series, while the Knicks will aim to maintain momentum.
With history on their side and their confidence growing, the Knicks are a team to watch as the Eastern Conference finals unfold.
