On Saturday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppin’s fiancée, Magdalena Bellinger, and their daughter drew attention as they twinned in matching denim jackets while attending Game 6 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals. Their joyful presence highlighted the excitement around the Pacers’ historic victory, which secured the team’s first NBA Finals berth in 25 years after a dominant 125-108 win over the New York Knicks.
Bellinger shared snapshots of the special outing on her Instagram, where both she and her daughter sported coordinated denim ensembles, with Bellinger complementing her look with an Obi Toppin t-shirt. Throughout the night, the duo displayed placards featuring Toppin’s face, celebrating his contribution to the Pacers’ success. Bellinger also posted moments from the arena capturing the electric atmosphere during the final quarter.
Key Contributions from Pacers’ Stars Propel Team to NBA Finals
The Pacers’ victory was fueled by standout performances from Pascal Siakam and Tyrese Haliburton, who combined for 52 points in the critical Game 6 matchup. Obi Toppin himself played a significant role, logging 25 minutes on the court and contributing 18 points, six rebounds, and three blocks. This effort helped Indiana secure a convincing 17-point win over the Knicks, propelling them to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the upcoming NBA Finals for their first-ever championship opportunity.
Obi Toppin Delivers Redemption Against Former Team in Series Victory
Obi Toppin’s strong showing against the Knicks carried extra meaning, as he faced his former team in the Eastern Conference Finals. Originally drafted eighth overall by New York in the 2020 NBA Draft, Toppin was seen as a promising understudy to Julius Randle. However, during the 2023 season, the Knicks traded him to the Pacers for two future second-round picks, a move that now appears to favor Indiana.
Throughout this series, Toppin demonstrated his growth and determination, delivering key moments that helped the Pacers eliminate New York. He sealed the Game 1 win with a crucial dunk at Madison Square Garden and hit a clutch three-pointer to close Game 4. His consistent impact culminated with a powerful Game 6 performance, marking a form of payback against the team that let him go.
Pacers’ Historic Run Marks a New Chapter as NBA Finals Approach
The Indiana Pacers’ advancement to the NBA Finals marks a monumental achievement for the franchise, ending a quarter-century absence from basketball’s biggest stage. With leaders like Siakam, Haliburton, and Toppin driving the team forward, the Pacers have forged a path filled with hope and determination. Fans now eagerly anticipate the Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, as the franchise pursues its inaugural NBA championship.
“Obi Toppin had a series to remember against his former team, helping eliminate them in the Eastern Conference finals.” —Source
“He sealed Game 1 for the Pacers with a game-winning dunk at MSG and helped close the win in Game 4 with a dagger three.” —Source
“Although a dream move at the time, Toppin was deemed surplus to requirements when entering his contract year in 2023 and shipped off to the Pacers for two future second-round picks.” —Source