Indiana Pacers Reach NBA Finals for First Time in 25 Years
The Indiana Pacers have reached the NBA Finals for the first time in 25 years after beating the New York Knicks 125-108 in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Saturday.
Pascal Siakam led the way with 31 points, along with three assists and five rebounds, and was named Eastern Conference Finals MVP. Tyrese Haliburton also played a key role, scoring 21 points and adding six rebounds and 13 assists to help the Pacers win the series 4-2.
Speaking after the match, Siakam shared his joy:
“It feels great to be in this position. To make it to the NBA Finals after all the hard work is truly amazing.”
The Pacers had a narrow lead at halftime, winning the first quarter 25-24 and the second 33-30. They then took full control in the third quarter, outscoring the Knicks 34-23 to enter the final quarter with a 15-point lead.
Earlier in the season, things didn’t look promising for Indiana. They had a losing record as recently as January 1, but turned things around to finish 34-14 and earned the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference.
Their playoff journey has been impressive. They first defeated the Milwaukee Bucks in five games, then pulled off a surprise win over top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers, also in five games, to set up their clash with the Knicks.
The Pacers will now face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Finals, with Game 1 set to begin on Thursday in Oklahoma City.
