The Indiana Pacers dominated the New York Knicks with a 125-108 win in Game 6 of the ECF to close out the series. With Hollywood star Ben Stiller taking shots at the team before the game, Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton had his response ready after the result was declared.
The clapback originated from a tweet by Stiller, who attempted to talk trash to Haliburton by commenting on his pre-game outfit. He tweeted saying:
“Good thing he brought his duffel for the flight to NY.”
The actor attempted to imply a certain win for the Knicks, ensuring the series returned to Madison Square Garden for Game 7. However, given the outcome, this did not come to pass. Instead, Haliburton had the perfect opportunity to take a shot at Stiller, and he did not hesitate. He responded by saying:
“Nah, was to pack y’all up.”
The Pacers outlasted the Knicks with a 4-2 win in a closely fought series to secure their place in the NBA Finals. Making their first Finals appearance since 2000, Indiana is certainly hopeful to exorcise some demons and secure their first trophy in franchise history.
Game 6 appeared to be two different games. The Knicks stayed within punching distance for the better part of the first half. However, the second half saw the game completely slip away from their grasp as the Pacers put on an offensive masterclass to run away with it in the third quarter.
Indiana’s onslaught was led by Pascal Siakam. The Pacers forward dominated on the night, racking up 31 points, five rebounds, three blocks, and three assists on 10-18 shooting from the field.
His success on the offensive front eventually led to him being crowned the Eastern Conference Finals MVP, much to the surprise of many.
Siakam’s efforts were closely supported by Haliburton’s contributions. Having gained much repute for his ability to control the flow of the game, the 25-year-old masterfully ran the Pacers’ offense, recording 21 points and 13 assists on 9-17 shooting for the game.
Indiana saw consistent performances by players on their roster, with a total of seven players notching double-digit scoring on the night. Obi Toppin also led the bench mob with a valuable 18 points, along with Thomas Bryant, who had 11 points of his own.
In comparison, the Knicks had a tough time getting things going. Their star duo of Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns combined for 41 points on the night. OG Anunoby led the scoring effort with 24 points.
New York went deep into their rotation. Unfortunately, they failed to see significant production from players on their roster, seeing only Landry Shamet come away with 12 points off the bench.
The Knicks’ hopes of reaching the NBA Finals came up short. Instead, the Pacers will find themselves in a position to make history for their franchise. However, pitted in a series against the best in the West is no easy feat. Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder is set for Thursday, June 5th, at 8:30 pm ET.
