New York — The 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Finals opened with a high-scoring overtime game between the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers, bringing renewed attention to the emerging rivalry between point guards Jalen Brunson and Tyrese Haliburton. Indiana won Game 1, 138–135, at Madison Square Garden after overcoming a double-digit fourth-quarter deficit.
Tyrese Haliburton recorded 31 points and 11 assists, including a buzzer-beating shot at the end of regulation that tied the game. Although replay showed Haliburton’s foot was on the line, making the basket a two-pointer instead of a three, the moment was pivotal in shifting momentum toward Indiana.
Jalen Brunson led New York with 38 points and eight assists. The Knicks held a 10-point lead with under five minutes remaining in regulation, but were outscored 17–7 during the final stretch and overtime.
The meeting marks another chapter in the Jalen Brunson vs Tyrese Haliburton matchup, which has grown into one of the NBA’s most discussed individual rivalries in recent years. Both players are franchise point guards for storied organizations. Brunson, 28, is in his second year leading the Knicks, while Haliburton, 25, is the centerpiece of a young Pacers roster making its first deep playoff run in nearly a decade.
The off-court relationship between the two players has drawn public interest. In June 2024, both participated in a WWE SmackDown event at Madison Square Garden. During a scripted segment, Haliburton appeared alongside Logan Paul before being confronted by Brunson in front of a sold-out crowd. Though staged, the faceoff added to the narrative surrounding their basketball encounters.
Despite the competitive dynamic, public interactions have also demonstrated mutual respect. Following the birth of Brunson’s first child in July 2024, Haliburton publicly offered congratulations via social media, indicating a personal rapport beyond the game.
The Knicks and Pacers have a long history of playoff tension, most notably in the 1990s. This current iteration adds a modern layer to the rivalry, with two guards representing contrasting play styles. Brunson is known for his methodical footwork and midrange efficiency. Haliburton, in contrast, is characterized by his pace, three-point shooting, and unconventional passing angles.
New York and Indiana are now set to meet in Game 2 of the series, with adjustments expected on both ends. The Knicks will likely focus on closing out defensive possessions and limiting transition points, while the Pacers may continue to exploit spacing through Haliburton’s orchestration.
As the series progresses, the Brunson-Haliburton rivalry is positioned to play a central role in determining who will advance to the NBA Finals from the Eastern Conference.
