The Comeback That Shocked Madison Square Garden

With 3:14 remaining in regulation and trailing by 14 points, the Indiana Pacers' championship hopes appeared to be fading fast. Then Aaron Nesmith happened. The 25-year-old forward unleashed a shooting clinic for the ages, draining five consecutive three-pointers to force overtime against the New York Knicks.

Record-Breaking Fourth Quarter Explosion

Nesmith's final stat line tells an extraordinary story:

30 points | 8/9 three-pointers | 20 fourth-quarter points

His six three-pointers in the fourth quarter set a new NBA playoff record for most threes in any quarter since 1998. The eight total three-pointers shattered Reggie Miller's previous Pacers playoff record of six.

Defensive Grit Meets Offensive Fireworks

While Nesmith's shooting stole headlines, his defensive effort against Jalen Brunson proved equally crucial. The Knicks star managed just 2 points in overtime after Nesmith's relentless defensive pressure:

Brunson in regulation: 41 points
Brunson in overtime: 2 points

From Role Player to Playoff Legend

This breakout performance caps Nesmith's remarkable evolution:

2023-24 Regular Season:
12.2 PPG | 41.9% 3PT | +12.3 net rating

2025 Playoffs:
10.5 PPG | 44.2% 3PT | Primary defender on All-Stars

Carlisle's Championship Vision Comes Alive

Head coach Rick Carlisle emphasized the historical significance: "What Aaron achieved tonight transcends statistics. He delivered when everything was on the line - that's the mark of true greatness."

The Pacers now hold home-court advantage as they prepare for Game 2, riding the momentum of what players are already calling "The Nesmith Game."