NBA: “Just unbelievable”: Pascal Siakam’s brilliance propels Pacers to first NBA finals since 2000

The Indiana Pacers have secured their first NBA Finals appearance since 2000, defeating the New York Knicks 125-108 in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Saturday night(May 31).

This victory marks only the second time in franchise history that the Pacers will compete for the championship, with the series set to begin on June 5 in Oklahoma City against the Thunder.

Pascal Siakam becomes the star of the match

Forward Pascal Siakam led Indiana with a game-high 31 points, earning the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals MVP award. Siakam's dominant performance throughout the series, including a standout 39-point game in Game 2, was instrumental in the Pacers' success. Reflecting on the achievement, Siakam described the experience as "just unbelievable," highlighting the team's resilience and unity.

Point guard Tyrese Haliburton also played a crucial role, averaging 21.0 points, 10.5 assists, and 6.0 rebounds over the six-game series. In Game 6, Haliburton scored 11 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter, helping to seal the victory for Indiana.

The Pacers' journey to the Finals has been marked by strategic roster moves. The acquisition of Siakam from the Toronto Raptors addressed key deficiencies in size and defense, transforming Indiana into legitimate contenders.

Additionally, the trade for Haliburton in exchange for Domantas Sabonis has proven pivotal, with Haliburton emerging as a franchise cornerstone.

Head coach Rick Carlisle, in his second stint with the Pacers, has guided the team through this remarkable postseason run. Carlisle previously led Indiana to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2004 and won an NBA championship with the Dallas Mavericks in 2011.

The upcoming Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder promise an exciting matchup. Both teams have rebuilt through savvy trades, including those involving Paul George, which have shaped their current rosters. The Thunder, led by MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, will have home-court advantage in the series.

Game 1 of the NBA Finals is scheduled for June 5 in Oklahoma City, where the Pacers will seek their first championship in franchise history.