Source: Dylan Buell / Getty
A Run to Remember: The Indiana Pacers’ Unforgettable 2025 Playoff Journey
The 2024-25 Indiana Pacers crafted a postseason narrative of resilience, drama, and heartbreak that captivated the basketball world.
As documented in the special “Runners Up to Remember,” their journey to the NBA Finals was an electrifying ride defined by clutch performances and unwavering team spirit.
The playoffs began with a familiar, chippy series against the Milwaukee Bucks.
The rivalry, already simmering from previous encounters, reached a boiling point.
Yet, it was Tyrese Halliburton who delivered the final blow, sinking a game-winning layup in overtime of Game 5 to clinch the series.
Momentum carried them into the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers.
Once again, Halliburton embraced the big moment, hitting a stunning, game-winning three-pointer in Game 2.
The Pacers’ offensive firepower was on full display in Game 4, where they tied an NBA playoff record with a 41-point halftime lead, eventually winning the series.
In the Eastern Conference Finals, they faced the New York Knicks, reigniting a classic rivalry.
The series saw Halliburton channel Pacers legend Reggie Miller, but it was the team’s collective effort that secured their first trip to the NBA Finals in 25 years.
Their final test was against the formidable Oklahoma City Thunder.
After trading blows and pushing the series to a decisive Game 7, disaster struck.
An Achilles tear sidelined Halliburton early in the game, a devastating end to his heroic playoff run.
Though they fell short of the championship, the Pacers’ improbable run generated billions of social media impressions, created a massive economic impact for Indianapolis, and gave their dedicated fans a season they will never forget.
1. Tyrese Haliburton and his teammates get fired up before playing the Oklahoma City Thunder
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2. Tyrese Haliburton and Obi Toppin
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3. Yes ‘Cers became a battle cry for the fans and the team
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4. Tyrese Haliburton has successful surgery on his torn achilles
Source:@TyHaliburton22
5. Pacer fans gather outside Gainbridge Fieldhouse to celebrate their first appearance in the NBA Finals since 2000
Source:WIBC Radio
6. TJ McConnell enjoys Interacting with the crowd as the Pacers throttle the Cleveland Cavaliers
Source:Indiana Pacers
7. Pacer fans celebrate a playoff win
Source:WIBC Radio
8. Pacers Head Coach Rick Carlisle
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