The storied rivalry between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers reignites on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 9:00 PM EDT (10:00 PM Brasília time) at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Game 5 of the NBA Eastern Conference finals sees the Pacers leading the series 3-1, putting the Knicks on the brink of elimination. Fans can catch the action live on ESPN, Amazon Prime Video, and NBA League Pass, with streaming options available for global audiences. Held at the iconic Madison Square Garden, the game has sold out, with secondary market tickets starting at $150. Stars like Jalen Brunson for the Knicks and Tyrese Haliburton for the Pacers are set to drive a high-stakes battle fueled by tactical coaching and historic animosity.
Both teams showcased strong regular-season performances, with the Knicks finishing third in the East (51 wins, 31 losses) and the Pacers fourth (50 wins, 32 losses). The series has delivered close contests, with home-court advantage playing a significant role. The Knicks secured a 106-100 win in Game 3, but the Pacers responded with a commanding 118-110 victory in Game 4 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
- Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York, with a capacity of 19,812.
- Broadcast: ESPN, Amazon Prime Video, and NBA League Pass provide full coverage.
- Tickets: Sold out, with resale prices starting at $150.
- Timing: 9:00 PM EDT, accessible for U.S. and international viewers.
The matchup underscores the basketball passion in New York and Indianapolis, with fans decked out in team colors and local businesses thriving on game-day excitement. The 1990s-era clashes between the teams add a layer of nostalgia to the contest.
New york’s game-day vibe
New York City is buzzing with anticipation as the Knicks return to the Eastern Conference finals for the first time since 2000. Madison Square Garden, dubbed “The World’s Most Famous Arena,” is ready for a raucous crowd. Streets around the venue are adorned with Knicks flags, and vendors sell jerseys of Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. Nearby bars like Stout NYC are packed with fans watching on big screens.
The NBA has set up fan zones with free activities, including shooting contests and live music. Weather forecasts predict a cool evening with temperatures between 48°F and 55°F, partly cloudy skies, and no rain. Humidity will hover around 55%, with light winds up to 5 mph, ensuring smooth travel for attendees.
Knicks’ lineup
Coached by Tom Thibodeau, the Knicks are expected to stick with their Game 4 starting lineup, tailored to counter the Pacers’ fast-paced offense. Jalen Brunson, averaging 28.8 points per game in the playoffs, remains the offensive cornerstone. Karl-Anthony Towns, a key offseason addition, contributes 15 points and 8 rebounds per game in the paint.
- Probable starters: Jalen Brunson (point guard), Mikal Bridges (shooting guard), Josh Hart (small forward), OG Anunoby (power forward), Karl-Anthony Towns (center).
- Key reserves: Donte DiVicenzo, Miles McBride, Isaiah Hartenstein.
- Injury report: No confirmed absences, though Anunoby is day-to-day with a leg issue.
Thibodeau’s defensive-minded approach will likely emphasize tight coverage on Tyrese Haliburton, with Bridges and Hart providing versatility on both ends of the court.
Pacers’ lineup
Rick Carlisle’s Pacers rely on a youthful, high-octane roster led by Tyrese Haliburton, who averages 17.5 points and 9.3 assists in the playoffs. Pascal Siakam’s efficiency and Myles Turner’s rim protection anchor the frontcourt.
- Probable starters: Tyrese Haliburton (point guard), Andrew Nembhard (shooting guard), Aaron Nesmith (small forward), Pascal Siakam (power forward), Myles Turner (center).
- Key reserves: T.J. McConnell, Obi Toppin, Isaiah Jackson.
- Injury report: Isaiah Jackson remains sidelined with an Achilles injury.
Carlisle’s playoff experience has shone through, with the Pacers leveraging speed to exploit the Knicks’ defense. Siakam, averaging 23 points, is a constant threat inside.
Where to watch live
U.S. viewers can tune into ESPN for televised coverage, complete with pre- and post-game analysis. Amazon Prime Video and NBA League Pass offer streaming with English commentary, accessible on mobile devices and smart TVs.
In Brazil, bars in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, such as Allianz Parque Bar and Shenanigans, will screen the game, creating a lively atmosphere for fans. SiriusXM radio (channel 86) provides live play-by-play for subscribers. The NBA League Pass has seen a surge in Brazilian viewership during the playoffs, reflecting growing interest in the sport.
Head-to-head history
The Knicks-Pacers rivalry is among the NBA’s fiercest, with 47 playoff meetings. The Pacers hold a 25-22 edge. Iconic 1990s battles featuring Reggie Miller’s taunts and John Starks’ responses remain legendary.
In the 2024-25 regular season, the Knicks won two of three matchups. In the current playoffs, the Pacers have taken Games 1 (138-135), 2 (114-109), and 4 (118-110), while the Knicks claimed Game 3 (106-100). The series’ intensity mirrors its historic stakes.
Last five games
The Knicks have shown resilience but struggled defensively against the Pacers’ offense.
- Knicks:
- Game 4: Loss to Pacers (118-110, 05/27/2025).
- Game 3: Win vs. Pacers (106-100, 05/25/2025).
- Game 2: Loss to Pacers (114-109, 05/23/2025).
- Game 1: Loss to Pacers (138-135, 05/21/2025).
- Semifinals: Win vs. Celtics (127-102, 05/15/2025).
- Pacers:
- Game 4: Win vs. Knicks (118-110, 05/27/2025).
- Game 3: Loss to Knicks (106-100, 05/25/2025).
- Game 2: Win vs. Knicks (114-109, 05/23/2025).
- Game 1: Win vs. Knicks (138-135, 05/21/2025).
- Semifinals: Win vs. Cavaliers (112-98, 05/13/2025).
Officiating spotlight
Officiating has been a talking point, particularly after the Pacers filed a 2024 complaint with the NBA over 78 disputed calls across two games. Game 5 will feature a seasoned crew led by James Capers, known for his strict approach. Sean Corbin and Kevin Cutler round out the team, tasked with managing a physical, high-energy game.
With frequent battles in the paint between Siakam and Towns, precise calls will be critical. Capers’ low rate of technical fouls suggests a focus on keeping the game flowing.
Top scorers
Jalen Brunson (28.8 points per game) and Pascal Siakam (23 points) lead their teams’ scoring in the series.
- Other standouts:
- Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers): 17.5 points, 9.3 assists.
- Karl-Anthony Towns (Knicks): 15 points, 8 rebounds.
- Myles Turner (Pacers): 12 points, 6 rebounds.
The series’ scoring average of 235.8 points per game highlights the offensive firepower on both sides. Shutting down the opponent’s top scorers will be pivotal.
Game 5 tidbits
The series has captured attention with unique storylines. The international flair of players like Pascal Siakam (Cameroon) and OG Anunoby (Nigeria) adds a global dimension.
- Notable facts:
- Brunson and Haliburton were 2025 All-Star selections.
- Game 1 marked the first 970-game playoff comeback of its kind.
- Madison Square Garden has been the Knicks’ home since 1968.
- Indianapolis is dubbed America’s “basketball capital.”
The rivalry’s revival has energized fans, reinforcing basketball’s cultural significance in both cities.
Tickets and venue access
Game 5 tickets at Madison Square Garden sold out days ago. Resale platforms like Ticketmaster and StubHub list tickets from $150 for upper-level seats to $2,500 for courtside.
Located in Manhattan, the arena is easily accessible via subway, with Penn Station nearby. Gates open at 6:00 PM EDT, offering fans early access to pre-game events like autograph sessions and contests.
Game predictions
The Knicks face a must-win scenario at home to keep their playoff hopes alive. Analysts highlight Brunson’s scoring and the Knicks’ defense against Haliburton as key factors. The Pacers aim to sustain their offensive rhythm.
Betnacional lists the Knicks as favorites with 1.52 odds against 2.49 for the Pacers, reflecting home-court advantage. The projected point total is 220.5, indicating a close, high-scoring affair.
