The question on every New York basketball fan’s mind this morning: did the Knicks win last night? The answer is a resounding yes. Facing elimination and the weight of a 3-1 series deficit, the New York Knicks delivered a statement performance at Madison Square Garden, defeating the Indiana Pacers 111-94 in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals. With their season on the line, the Knicks not only survived but thrived, reigniting hope and setting the stage for a dramatic series finish.
Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns Lead the Charge
From the opening tip, the Knicks played with urgency and precision. Jalen Brunson, the team’s floor general, set the tone early—scoring six straight points to start the game and finishing with 32 points on an efficient 12-of-18 shooting. His aggressive drives, crafty finishes, and timely jumpers put Indiana on the defensive from the outset. Karl-Anthony Towns complemented Brunson’s brilliance, contributing 24 points and 13 rebounds, dominating the paint and providing a consistent scoring threat inside.
The duo’s combined 56 points were the foundation of New York’s wire-to-wire victory. Their leadership and poise under pressure were exactly what the Knicks needed to stave off elimination and keep their championship dreams alive.
Defense Defines the Night
The Knicks’ defense, which had struggled earlier in the series, came alive when it mattered most. New York held Indiana to just 94 points on 40.5% shooting, their lowest offensive output of the playoffs. The Pacers, known for their fast pace and ball movement, were stifled by the Knicks’ intensity and discipline. New York forced Indiana into tough, late-clock situations and limited their effectiveness in the half-court.
Key defensive moments—like Mitchell Robinson’s pressure on Myles Turner and Josh Hart’s relentless closeouts—energized the Garden crowd and set the tone for the entire night. The Knicks also won the battle on the boards, grabbed more offensive rebounds, and outscored the Pacers by 26 points in the paint, showcasing their physicality and desire.
The Knicks’ ability to lock down defensively, especially in the second half, was the difference-maker. Indiana’s star guard Tyrese Haliburton, who had been a force earlier in the series, was held in check, scoring his first basket only midway through the third quarter.
Key Stats from Game 5
- Jalen Brunson: 32 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 12-18 FG
- Karl-Anthony Towns: 24 points, 13 rebounds
- Knicks field goal percentage: 49.4%
- Pacers field goal percentage: 40.5%
- Knicks points in the paint: 26 more than Indiana
- Knicks turnovers: 5 fewer than Pacers
- Offensive rebounds: Knicks +3 advantage
Momentum Shifts Back to New York
With the win, the Knicks narrowed the series deficit to 3-2. The pressure now shifts to Indiana, who will host Game 6 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. While the Pacers still have the series lead and home-court advantage, the Knicks’ performance in Game 5 has injected new life and belief into the franchise and its fanbase.
The Knicks have shown flashes of this level of play throughout the season, but consistency has eluded them. If they can replicate their Game 5 performance—especially their defensive intensity and star power—they have a real chance to force a decisive Game 7 back at Madison Square Garden.
What’s Next: Game 6 and the Road Ahead
Game 6 is set for Saturday night in Indianapolis. The stakes couldn’t be higher: a Pacers win sends them to the NBA Finals, while a Knicks victory brings the series back to New York for a winner-take-all Game 7. The world’s most famous arena has not hosted a June playoff game in 26 years, but that could change if the Knicks continue to play with the heart and discipline they showed last night.
For fans, the answer to “did the Knicks win last night” is more than just a score—it’s a sign that this team, counted out by many, is not ready to go home. The Knicks have found their pulse, and the city is once again buzzing with hope.
Conclusion: Knicks Aren’t Done Yet
Last night’s victory was more than a win; it was a declaration that the New York Knicks are still alive and dangerous. The comeback is on, and the Garden faithful have reason to believe that history could be made. All eyes now turn to Game 6, where the Knicks will fight to keep their season—and their championship aspirations—alive.
Don’t miss the next chapter in this thrilling series. Tune in Saturday night and be part of the excitement as the Knicks continue their quest for basketball immortality.
Secure your tickets, rally your friends, and get ready to cheer—because the answer to “did the Knicks win last night” could soon become the story of the season.