Oct 25, 2024; New York, New York, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) looks to pass the ball against New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) during the third quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Tyrese Haliburton Makes Honest Jalen Brunson Statement After Pacers-Knicks Game

Originally posted on Fastbreak on SI | By Ben Stinar | Last updated May 22, 2025 2:11 AM ET

On Wednesday night, the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks played Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals.

Tyrese Haliburton led the Pacers to a 138-135 victory (in overtime) at Madison Square Garden.

Via The Athletic: "THE INDIANA PACERS STEAL GAME 1 AT MSG

New York led 111-94 with 6:26 left to play.

Then the Pacers outscored the Knicks 31-14 to close regulation."

THE INDIANA PACERS STEAL GAME 1 AT MSG

New York led 111-94 with 6:26 left to play.

Then the Pacers outscored the Knicks 31-14 to close regulation. pic.twitter.com/ASG4FcSVfG
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) May 22, 2025

After the game, Haliburton was asked about Knicks star Jalen Brunson.

Haliburton (via SNY's Knicks Videos): "He's a great player. I love competing against him. Maybe I'm not supposed to say that like we're friends. I love competing against that guy."

"He's a great player. I love competing against him."

Tyrese Haliburton on Jalen Brunson: pic.twitter.com/72idf7543x
— Knicks Videos (@sny_knicks) May 22, 2025

Brunson finished the loss with 43 points, one rebound and five assists while shooting 15/25 from the field and 1/6 from the three-point range in 38 minutes of playing time.

While the All-Star point guard played well, the Pacers did a good job of keeping him in check during overtime.

Via Opta Analyst US: "The Pacers pull off yet another incredible comeback, winning Game 1 in overtime after trailing by eight points with 40 seconds left. Jalen Brunson had seven turnovers, tied for his highest in any game of his career (regular season or playoffs)."

The Pacers pull off yet another incredible comeback, winning Game 1 in overtime after trailing by eight points with 40 seconds left. Jalen Brunson had seven turnovers, tied for his highest in any game of his career (regular season or playoffs). pic.twitter.com/9uXCx0EbaS
— Opta Analyst US (@OptaAnalystUS) May 22, 2025

This article first appeared on Fastbreak on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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