Pascal Siakam named Eastern Conference Finals MVP as Pacers storm into NBA finals

In a night that will be etched in Indiana basketball history, Pascal Siakam was named the Eastern Conference Finals MVP after leading the Indiana Pacers to a decisive 125-108 victory over the New York Knicks, clinching their first NBA Finals berth since 2000. Siakam’s electrifying performance in Game 6—where he poured in 31 points—capped a series in which he scored at least 30 points three times and consistently delivered under pressure.



Siakam’s dominance was on full display throughout the series, but it was his 39-point explosion in Game 2 that truly set the tone for Indiana’s run. Averaging 20.2 points per game during the regular season, Siakam elevated his play when it mattered most, finishing the conference finals with averages well above his season marks. He also contributed 6.9 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game, showcasing his all-around impact.


“Shoutout Indy, man,” Siakam said on the TNT broadcast as he accepted the MVP trophy. “It’s been such an amazing experience for me so far. From the first day I landed here, the love has been amazing. Just unbelievable, man. First-class organization. I’m just so happy to be here. And tonight, after a bad Game 5, we wanted to bounce back. I have, like, 100% belief in my teammates. Whenever we’re down, we always find a way. And we did that tonight.”

Siakam’s arrival from the Toronto Raptors ahead of the 2023-24 season was met with high expectations, and he has delivered, averaging over 20 points for the eighth consecutive year. His leadership and shot-making have been pivotal in Indiana’s postseason resurgence.

The Pacers now turn their attention to the Oklahoma City Thunder, who enter the NBA Finals after a dominant 68-win regular season and a commanding playoff run. With the Finals set to tip off June 5, Indiana will lean on their newly crowned MVP as they chase their first-ever NBA championship.