In a thrilling encounter at Madison Square Garden, Indiana Pacers player Tyrese Haliburton delighted fans by reviving Reggie Miller’s famous ‘choke’ signal during the tense first game of the Eastern Conference finals against the New York Knicks. Haliburton made a dramatic three-point shot that seemed to clinch the game, provoking an exuberant celebration as he gestured to the crowd. However, replay footage revealed his foot was on the line, negating the basket, and the game proceeded to overtime. Fortunately for the Pacers, they ultimately secured a 138-135 victory against their longstanding rivals.
Reflecting on his premature celebration, Haliburton admitted he may have “wasted” the iconic signal, acknowledging that had he realised his shot was a two-pointer, he would have refrained from mimicking Miller’s historic taunt, famously directed at Knicks superfan Spike Lee during the 1994 playoffs. Haliburton noted that the moment felt right, saying, “Everybody wanted me to do it… but it’s got to feel right.”
Pacers coach Rick Carlisle supported Haliburton’s emotional reaction, highlighting the intensity of the atmosphere and downplaying concerns about inciting the crowd. He observed, “It’s not a big deal. The place is unlikely to be any louder than it was tonight.”
Haliburton, who impressed with 26 points in a previous playoff game against the Knicks, showed his admiration for Miller by wearing a shirt depicting him during a press conference. Miller, present in the arena and co-commentating on the game, exchanged glances with Haliburton, leading the younger player to express his appreciation for the experience. Haliburton remarked, “Definitely a special time – really cool he was in the building for that.”
As anticipation builds for the second game of the series at Madison Square Garden, the Pacers aim to carry their momentum forward against the Knicks.