The sports scene in Indianapolis was alive on Sunday night as the NBA’s Eastern Conference Finals took place alongside the Indianapolis 500. The Pacers were up against the New York Knicks at Gainbridge Fieldhouse and unfortunately lost after squandering a 20-point lead, ending the game 106-100. This loss reduces their series lead to 2-1.

Previously, many were hopeful that the Pacers could sweep the Knicks. The impressive comeback by New York in Game 1 raised questions about the competitiveness between the teams. How much should a game like this influence our understanding of the series?

The Pacers have never been victorious in Eastern Conference Finals matches played on the same day as the Indy 500, continuing a troubling trend.

In 1999, Indiana hosted the Knicks in a Game 1 that ended with New York winning 93-90, followed by a series loss. The same day in 2004, they faced the Pistons and were defeated in Game 5. More recently, in 2013, the Pacers lost to the Miami Heat after the Indy 500.

In 2025, the Pacers now find themselves 0-4 in these unfortunate matchups, raising concerns about their chances in the remainder of the series. Despite the odds, they are still ahead 2-1, seeking to reverse their fortune.

The loss of key player Aaron Nesmith due to a leg injury impacted the game significantly, contributing to the team’s late collapse.

Karl-Anthony Towns reacts: ‘After dunking against opponents in Game 3, the challenges continue for the Pacers in this nail-biting series.’

Translation: After dunking against opponents in Game 3, the Pacers face lingering challenges in this intense series.