Pacers news: Jaylen Brunson gives props to Indiana after OT win: ‘They’re playing hard’

After almost reaching the top last season, c Indiana Pacers experience rock bottom. Without star quarterback and leader Tyrese Haliburton, the reigning Eastern Conference champions have struggled mightily this season. The Pacers have a record of 14-40, which is the worst mark in the league. They’ve gone from contending for the Larry O’Brien Trophy to contending for the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

However, even in their losses, the Pacers remained competitive throughout the season. They have had multiple games this season where they have overcome the odds and upset the top contender in the NBA. The Pacers did it again this Tuesday against the New York Knicks, taking the team to overtime.

The Pacers’ upset bid ended in overtime after surviving a last-ditch fight by the Knicks. Indiana has earned the respect of its opponents, as evidenced by the Knicks guard Jalen Brunson‘s comments after the game.

“I mean, no matter what the record is, they’re great,” Brunson said after the game. “Great coach. They do everything well. They play hard. They played until the last second, so those qualities they have, they will play every night, regardless of the record.”

Losers of four straight games coming into the matchup against the Knicks, the Pacers came out firing against the Knicks. In their rematch of the Eastern Conference Finals, Indiana did what it does best: share the wealth. Eight different players scored more than ten points during the game, led by Pascal Siakam’s 30 points and Andrew Nembhard’s 24 points.

It was a fierce battle between the two teams. There were 39 lead changes throughout the game as both teams battled to dominate their game. Despite a whopping 40 points from Brunson, the Knicks were unable to pull away, losing to the last seed in the Eastern Conference.

The Pacers will continue their road trip with a game against the Brooklyn Nets tomorrow. Although a playoff appearance seems unlikely at this point, the team continues to fight and prepare for next season.