Indiana Pacers: A Team of Destiny

Indiana Pacers: A Team of Destiny

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If it wasn’t already obvious that the basketball gods want the Pacers to win the NBA Finals, then the most improbable comeback in NBA history, sealed by Tyrese Haliburton’s magical buzzer-beater, should leave no doubt. Like I mentioned in this blog, the Pacers brought their signature magnet ball to Madison Square Garden and officially cemented themselves as the most captivating team in sports right now.

Falling behind big and clawing back has become the Pacers’ calling card this postseason.

It started back in Game 5 in Milwaukee (I was there). Down 118–111 with under 40 seconds left, the Pacers stormed back, Haliburton’s game-winning layup sent the Bucks home. If that’s Giannis’ last game in a Milwaukee uniform, that’s a hilarious way to go out.

Then came Game 2 of the Semis. The Cavs led 119–112 with less than a minute left. The Pacers defense tightened up, threw Cleveland off rhythm, and gave Haliburton a chance. He missed the second free throw, chased down his own rebound, and buried a dagger three to win it. The Cavs never recovered from that collapse and dropped the series in five.

Now to Game 1 against the Knicks.

At this point, someone needs to check the Pacers locker room for a pregame ritual or séance. Indiana started 8-for-8 from the field but quickly found themselves down big in the second half thanks to foul-baiting by Jalen Brunson and the Knicks. Once the Pacers trailed by 14, they decided it was time to wake up.

Aaron Nesmith went nuclear, drilling five threes in the final four minutes, and Tyrese Haliburton delivered his career-defining moment: a buzzer-beating game-tying shot that felt like a sequel to Kawhi Leonard’s 2019 series-winner. Haliburton even hit the choke celebration early, adding extra pressure before OT. Then Obi Toppin stepped up and the Pacers stole Game 1 at MSG.

This team isn’t just special… they’re fated. It’s like they need to get down double digits just to make things interesting.

At times it’s almost like they’re toying with teams. If the Pacers ever decide to actually show up in the first three quarters, the rest of the league is in trouble.

Game 2 tonight in MSG. Must-watch basketball.

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