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May 22, 2025 | Madison Square Garden, New York
The basketball world witnessed one of the most unexpected and electrifying playoff performances in recent NBA history, as Indiana Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith exploded for a career-high 30 points in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the New York Knicks. What seemed like a routine home win for the Knicks turned into a night of disbelief — and for the Pacers, glory — thanks to Nesmith's unstoppable fourth-quarter and overtime heroics.
With just under five minutes left in regulation, the Pacers trailed by 17 points. The raucous Madison Square Garden crowd was already anticipating a Game 1 victory. But then, Aaron Nesmith went supernova.
He drained six consecutive three-pointers, added two clutch free throws, and helped swing the momentum completely in Indiana's favor. Nesmith scored 20 points in the final five minutes of the fourth quarter alone, sending the game into overtime, where the Pacers completed the 138–135 comeback win.
“That was the best game of my career,” Nesmith said in a post-game interview. “I’ve never made that many threes in one game — but tonight, it just felt like everything I shot was going in.”
Nesmith's stat line in Game 1 was astonishing:
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30 Points (Career High)
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8/9 from Three-Point Range
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4 Rebounds, 3 Assists
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Clutch Defense on Jalen Brunson
Before this game, Nesmith was primarily seen as a reliable 3-and-D wing — a gritty, defensive-minded player who could hit the occasional outside shot. But his Game 1 performance might have changed that perception forever.
His performance put him in elite company, joining names like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson on the list of players to hit 8+ threes in a playoff game while shooting above 85%.
While his scoring caught headlines, Nesmith’s defensive presence was equally important. He took on the assignment of guarding Knicks’ star guard Jalen Brunson, making life difficult for the All-Star with physical defense and hustle plays. In clutch moments, his perimeter defense forced crucial misses and turnovers that shifted the momentum.
It’s rare to see a player dominate both ends of the floor in a high-stakes playoff game — but Nesmith did just that.
Aaron Nesmith’s journey to this moment hasn’t been easy. Drafted by the Boston Celtics in 2020, he struggled for playing time before being traded to Indiana in 2022. Since then, he’s worked quietly but consistently, improving his shooting percentages, studying film, and building trust with his teammates.
“We’ve always believed in Aaron,” said Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton. “He’s the guy who stays after practice, puts up extra shots, and gives 100% on defense every night. Tonight was his moment — and he earned it.”
Now the question is — was this a one-night explosion, or the beginning of something bigger?
The Pacers lead the series 1–0, and with Game 2 still at Madison Square Garden, the Knicks will be desperate to respond. But one thing is now certain: they can no longer afford to ignore Aaron Nesmith.
With his confidence soaring and the spotlight on him, Nesmith has a chance to become one of the biggest X-factors in this year’s playoffs. If he continues to produce on both ends of the floor, the Pacers could be staring at their first NBA Finals appearance since 2000.
Aaron Nesmith’s Game 1 performance was more than just a hot streak — it was a defining moment. It showcased his growth, his talent, and his fearlessness under pressure. For fans, analysts, and opponents alike, this game was a powerful reminder that in the NBA playoffs, heroes can emerge from anywhere.
Whether or not the Pacers go all the way, Nesmith has already made his mark — and if this is just the beginning, the league should take notice.
