Tyrese Haliburton's Pacers denied the Knicks their first Eastern Conference Finals berth in 24 years with a 130-109 blowout win on Sunday. If the heartbreak of the loss wasn't enough, Haliburton decided to add insult to injury (literally) by sporting a sweatshirt featuring Reggie Miller's infamous choking gesture during his post-game presser.
Miller made the gesture toward Spike Lee after his Pacers overcame a double-digit deficit in Game 5 of the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals.
Tyrese Haliburton in a Reggie Miller sweatshirt after winning Game 7 at the Garden pic.twitter.com/TKuOc3t1zu
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) May 19, 2024
Seemingly inspired by Haliburton's postgame fit, Miller took to social media to troll the same fanbase he gave many a sleepless night. As seen below, Miller cited his on-air exchange with Josh Hart earlier in the series as the turning point. Towards the final moments of Game 2, which the Knicks won, Hart walked over to Miller and reminded him that New York's fanbase was chanting obscenities at him.
"When the series CHANGED!! Jalen Brunson you're a true BALLER, been the best player in these playoffs, but you and your boys can all heal up together on some beautiful beaches in Cancun, please enjoy!!" wrote Miller.
Reggie Miller on IG. pic.twitter.com/6JcPuZcUnz
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) May 19, 2024
Even the official Pacers X account got in on the fun, posting a screengrab of several ESPN analysts picking the Knicks to beat them in the series.
it was always Pacers in 7. pic.twitter.com/Hzp88oNi9D
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) May 19, 2024
All the trolling notwithstanding, the NBA is in a better place when the Knicks and Pacers are foes. And by the looks of it, we could be in the early stages of a renewed playoff rivalry between the franchises.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!