In Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals, the New York Knicks found themselves in a dire situation, needing a win to stay alive. Jalen Brunson stepped up with a stellar performance, scoring 32 points, grabbing five rebounds, and dishing out five assists. Meanwhile, Karl-Anthony Towns added 24 points and 13 rebounds after concerns about his left knee made him a game-time decision.

Thanks to their combined efforts and a significant defensive improvement, the Knicks triumphed over the Indiana Pacers with a score of 111-94. This remarkable game featured Brunson and Towns becoming the first duo since Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal in 2002 to both score 20+ points across the first five games of a conference finals.

Summary of Brunson and Towns’ Performance:

Game	Jalen Brunson Points	Karl-Anthony Towns Points	Result
Game 1	43	35	Lost by 3
Game 2	36	20	Lost by 5
Game 3	23	24	Won by 6
Game 4	31	24	Lost by 9
Game 5	32	24	Won by 17

Brunson also made history by notching his 10th game of 30 points and five assists in this postseason, joining elite company with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, LeBron James, and Michael Jordan who have accomplished this feat in a single playoff run.

Looking back at the 2002 Lakers, who after five games faced a similar 3-2 deficit yet came back to win in seven games, the Knicks aim to repeat history as they prepare for their next challenge against the Pacers.