The Indiana Pacers fell 111-94 to the New York Knicks in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Thursday, missing a chance to close out the series. Following the defeat, Pascal Siakam, the Pacers’ star forward, confronted reporter Gregg Doyel over questions about his team’s effort, provoking a moment that quickly spread online. This incident highlights the intense pressure and scrutiny players face during critical playoff moments.
Pascal Siakam challenges reporter during postgame interview
After the loss, Siakam faced reporters and was pressed specifically by Indianapolis Star columnist Gregg Doyel about why the Knicks appeared to play with more intensity in such a crucial game. Doyel asked repeatedly how it was possible that the Pacers did not fight hard enough in Game 5.
Siakam responded with visible frustration, stating,
“They played harder than us. It’s OK. We played hard, but they played harder. What’s your point? I don’t get it.”
The exchange grew tense as Siakam questioned Doyel’s line of inquiry, asking, “What are you talking about?” and later adding, “That’s basketball,” before checking if the reporter was done with his questioning. Despite Doyel’s persistence, Siakam’s brief but pointed replies suggested he found further probing unnecessary.
Reporter’s previous controversial interaction and suspension
This confrontation drew additional attention due to Gregg Doyel’s history with contentious interactions during press events. Last year, Doyel was suspended for two weeks by his employer after an uncomfortable exchange with Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark. During that encounter, he asked Clark to perform her signature heart hand gesture directed at him and remarked,
“I like that you’re here. I like that you’re here.”
Following the incident, Doyel publicly apologized, describing his behavior as “clumsy and awkward.” His suspension included being removed from covering Indiana Fever games. On social media, he expressed remorse, writing,
“Please know my heart (literally and figuratively) was well-intentioned. I will do better.”
Pacers and Pascal Siakam prepare for Game 6 rebound
On the court, Siakam had an uncharacteristically quiet Game 5, scoring 15 points on 5-of-13 shooting—well below his 23.6 points per game average in the series. He also recorded six rebounds, five assists, and three steals over 34 minutes. Earlier in the series, Siakam was instrumental in the Pacers’ success, netting 39 points in Game 2 and 30 points in Game 4, helping Indiana take a 3-1 lead.
Through 15 playoff games this season, Siakam averages 20.4 points on 53.5% shooting, along with 5.8 rebounds and 3.3 assists. The Pacers now aim to secure a series-clinching victory in Game 6, scheduled for Saturday at home, which would send them to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2000.