Key Takeaways:
- Jalen Brunson sank a go-ahead three-pointer with 4.4 seconds remaining and finished with 25 points as New York triumphed 114-113 over Indiana
- OG Anunoby intercepted the Pacers’ inbounds pass following the Knicks’ late lead, sealing the seventh consecutive win for a depleted New York squad
- Andrew Nembhard registered 31 points on 12-of-19 shooting for the Pacers, who have now lost three straight since Rick Carlisle’s 999th win
Match Analysis
The New York Knicks produced a dramatic late rally to secure a 114-113 victory against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Jalen Brunson delivered a crucial three-pointer with just 4.4 seconds left on the clock, which handed New York their first lead in the closing moments. OG Anunoby then capitalised on Indiana’s final possession, stealing the inbounds pass to deny the hosts a potential game-winner.
Despite playing without several key contributors, including centres Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson as well as guards Josh Hart, Deuce McBride, and Landry Shamet, the Knicks exhibited remarkable resilience. Mikal Bridges contributed 22 points and eight rebounds, while Tyler Kolek posted career-best numbers with 16 points and 11 assists.
FOUND A WAY TO WIN. pic.twitter.com/BxlQafRiiq
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) December 19, 2025
Pacers’ Standout Performances and Tough Loss
Andrew Nembhard led the way for Indiana, netting 31 points on 12-of-19 shooting and converting 4 of 5 attempts from beyond the arc. Pascal Siakam provided support with 26 points, six rebounds, and five assists. Bennedict Mathurin chipped in with 16 points and eight rebounds.
The injury-plagued Pacers were again without Tyrese Haliburton, Ben Sheppard, Aaron Nesmith, and Obi Toppin. Falling behind early, Indiana opened up a 28-12 lead in the first quarter and later held a 83-68 advantage late in the third. Despite these leads, Indiana have now dropped three consecutive games since Rick Carlisle earned his 999th career win. Carlisle remains one victory away from joining the 1,000-win club, a milestone last achieved by Doc Rivers in November 2021.
Knicks’ Second-Half Resurgence
After trailing by 16 points early and closing the margin to 62-59 at half-time, New York again found themselves down by double digits in the third quarter. The deficit did not deter them. Kolek’s 17-foot jumper with 8:41 remaining gave the Knicks a 95-94 lead, their first of the half. Though Indiana responded with a 10-3 run to break a 99-all tie, OG Anunoby levelled the score at 111 with a crucial three-pointer just 1:51 from time.
Brunson’s late deliverance, followed by Anunoby’s steal, capped off a remarkable turnaround, extending New York’s winning streak to seven matches.
Game Statistics
| Team | Points | Top Scorer | Key Statistical Contributions | Notable Absences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York Knicks | 114 | Jalen Brunson (25) | Brunson: 7 rebounds, 7 assists; Bridges: 22 points, 8 rebounds; Kolek: 16 points, 11 assists | Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, Josh Hart, Deuce McBride, Landry Shamet |
| Indiana Pacers | 113 | Andrew Nembhard (31) | Nembhard: 12-19 FG, 4-5 3P; Siakam: 26 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists; Mathurin: 16 points, 8 rebounds | Tyrese Haliburton, Ben Sheppard, Aaron Nesmith, Obi Toppin |
Looking Ahead
- Knicks: Hosts Philadelphia on Friday
- Pacers: Begins a two-game road trip Monday in Boston
