The historic rivalry between the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks in the 1990s was marked by memorable moments that have left a lasting impact on basketball fans. In May 1993, the Pacers shocked the Knicks with a 116-93 victory after a contentious game that saw John Starks ejected for headbutting Reggie Miller. The following year, Miller’s clutch shooting in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals gave birth to a New York villain, earning him notoriety among Knicks fans.
Despite a strong performance by Miller in Game 5, the Knicks managed to stay alive in the series with a 98-91 win, thanks in part to missed free throws by Miller late in the game. The Knicks secured a spot in the NBA Finals by defeating the Pacers 94-90 in Game 6 with a dramatic finish that included a missed layup by Starks and a game-winning dunk by Patrick Ewing. The two teams continued to battle in subsequent playoff series, with each game adding to the intensity of their rivalry.
In Game 1 of the 1999 Eastern Conference finals, the Knicks narrowly lost to the Pacers 88-86, setting the stage for a dramatic series. Despite the emergence of new stars and changes in team dynamics over the years, the rivalry between the Pacers and Knicks continued to captivate fans. In 2013, the Pacers eliminated the Knicks from the East semis with a 106-99 win in Game 6, marking another chapter in their storied history of playoff matchups.
Outside of their on-court battles, the rivalry between the Pacers and Knicks has led to memorable moments for fans and analysts alike. From dramatic finishes to controversial calls, the games between these two teams have often defied expectations and kept viewers on the edge of their seats. As the Knicks and Pacers prepare for their next matchup, fans can look back on these historic games and appreciate the intensity and passion that defined their rivalry.
The legacy of the Pacers-Knicks rivalry lives on in the hearts of basketball fans who have witnessed the highs and lows of their playoff battles. From Reggie Miller’s clutch shooting to the Knicks’ iconic players making game-winning plays, these matchups have showcased the best of NBA basketball. As the two teams continue to face off in the playoffs, fans can expect more unforgettable moments that will add to the legacy of this historic rivalry.
