Basketball analyst Skip Bayless expressed disbelief over the Indiana Pacers’ collapse in the fourth quarter of Game 3 in the Eastern Conference Finals against the New York Knicks on Sunday. The Pacers, led by Tyrese Haliburton, lost a 20-point advantage at home, eventually falling 106-100.
Bayless questioned how the team, which seemed to receive favorable officiating, allowed New York to outscore them 36-20 in the final period at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the arena also known as the home arena for WNBA star Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever.
“HOW DID THE INDIANA PACERS, SEEMINGLY GETTING EVERY CALL, ALLOW THE KNICKS TO WIN THE 4TH QUARTER 36-20 IN CAITLIN’S HOUSE?” Bayless wrote on X.
Key Performances Drive Knicks’ Rally
While Jalen Brunson has been the Knicks’ dependable scorer in close games throughout the season, Karl-Anthony Towns stood out dramatically in the fourth quarter of Game 3. Towns scored 20 points and secured 8 rebounds in just over 11 minutes, playing a key role in the Knicks’ comeback effort.
Conversely, the Pacers struggled offensively when it mattered most, shooting a poor 26.3% overall with an abysmal 12.5% from three-point range in the final period. This offensive drought allowed the Knicks to erase the deficit and take a 2-1 lead in the series.
New York Supporters Make Their Voices Heard in Indiana
The atmosphere inside Gainbridge Fieldhouse was electrifying, fueled by a loud contingent of New York Knicks fans rather than the home crowd. The passionate Knicks supporters celebrated a thrilling victory and continued to chant “Knicks in 6” even after the game ended.
The intensity of the cheering was so overwhelming that Knicks star Jalen Brunson had difficulty hearing himself during a postgame interview, highlighting the fans’ impact on the environment.
“I got to be a better leader, on and off the court…” Brunson was interrupted by the intense cheering. “Jeez, they’re loud. I can barely hear myself.”
Inside the NBA commentators also recognized the ferocity and travel commitment of New York’s fan base during their coverage.
“This is why New York people are crazy,” Barkley said. “These dudes have been chanting ‘Knicks in 6’.”
“It is crazy out here OMG… Listen man, they travel, man,” Kenny Smith added.
What to Expect Moving Forward in the Series
The Knicks will look to maintain this momentum and rely on continued fan support when Game 4 takes place on Tuesday. New York aims to even the series at two games apiece before the contest shifts to Madison Square Garden for the pivotal Game 5. Caitlin Clark’s influence on Pacers Knicks game nights continues to draw attention, especially in an arena that doubles as her home court, adding a unique dimension to the series atmosphere.