The Oklahoma City Thunder secured their victory in this year’s NBA Finals despite energetic attempts by ESPN’s Pat McAfee to inspire the Indiana Pacers at their home games. McAfee’s loud and theatrical rally speeches at Gainbridge Fieldhouse became a memorable part of the playoffs.
Alex Caruso Playfully Criticizes McAfee’s Intense Game-Day Speeches
Thunder guard Alex Caruso joined The Pat McAfee Show to tease McAfee for his WWE-style promos delivered repeatedly during Pacers games. While acknowledging that McAfee’s interruptions were somewhat distracting, Caruso humorously celebrated his team’s success over Indiana.
Caruso made light of the situation by reminding McAfee’s fans that
“there can only be one winner.”
He also admitted it was “really hard” to keep focus during the game when McAfee fired up the crowd with his spirited speeches.
“Also, me trying to ignore you giving rally speeches into the third, beginning of the fourth every game in Indiana was really hard, not gonna lie,”
Caruso said, highlighting the challenge of tuning out McAfee’s impassioned calls to action late in the game.
Controversy Over McAfee’s Celebrity Call-Outs During Key Playoff Moments
McAfee’s outspoken style drew attention beyond the Pacers, particularly when he singled out actors Ben Stiller and Timothée Chalamet during the Eastern Conference Finals. He also targeted sports commentator Stephen A. Smith during Game 4 of the NBA Finals, prompting criticism. Many felt McAfee’s interruptions distracted from the game and shifted focus toward himself and other celebrities rather than the team on the court.
McAfee Admits Being Pressured Into Speaking, Caruso Shows Respect
During his conversation with Caruso, McAfee revealed that the Pacers organization pressured him into delivering the rally speeches, catching him somewhat off guard. Caruso expressed understanding and said,
“They peer pressure you. I respect the [situation].”
Future Implications for Pacers’ Use of McAfee as a Motivational Speaker
While McAfee has been a dedicated supporter of Indiana teams over the past two seasons, his microphone takeover might give the Pacers reason to reconsider this approach if they make another deep playoff run. McAfee’s vocal enthusiasm, though well-intentioned, risks overshadowing the players and the game itself during critical moments.