The Unforgettable Final Minutes

In a playoff thriller that redefined Clutch Performances, Indiana Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith etched his name into NBA lore by becoming the first player in history to sink six three-pointers in a single fourth quarter of a playoff game. Facing elimination in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, Nesmith led a stunning comeback from a 13-point deficit to secure a 138-135 overtime victory.

Defying the Odds

With 5:03 remaining and the Knicks leading 128-115, Nesmith re-entered the game and ignited a historic run. Over the next three minutes, he buried six consecutive three-pointers—tying Stephen Curry's NBA playoff record for most triples in a quarter—while adding two free throws. This 20-point explosion not only erased the deficit but also silenced the raucous MSG crowd, culminating in Tyrese Haliburton's game-tying buzzer-beater to force overtime.

The Making of a Playoff Legend

A Journey of Resilience

Drafted 14th overall by the Boston Celtics in 2020, Nesmith struggled for playing time before being traded to Indiana in 2022. Under coach Rick Carlisle, he blossomed into a key contributor during his third season, averaging career highs of 12.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and a 41.9% three-point shooting clip. His defensive versatility and clutch gene made him indispensable in crunch-time situations.

Coach's Perspective

"Nesmith's growth is a testament to his work ethic," said Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle. "He's a Swiss Army Knife—he can guard multiple positions, attack the rim, and stretch the floor. Tonight, he showed why we trust him in the most critical moments."

Historical Significance

Joining the Pantheon

ESPN analyst Brian Windhorst called the Pacers' fourth-quarter rally "the most points scored in the final 3:14 of a playoff quarter in NBA history." Nesmith's performance was compared to legends like Curry's 13三分 in a 2016 Finals game and Michael Jordan's "Flu Game" due to its improbable nature under immense pressure.

A Redemption Story

Traded by the Celtics just three years prior, Nesmith now stands as a playoff icon. "This isn't just a win—it's a moment that redefines what's possible in clutch situations," Windhorst added. The victory showcased how perseverance and preparation can elevate overlooked talent to legendary status.

Keywords

Aaron Nesmith | Indiana Pacers | Madison Square Garden | NBA Playoffs | Eastern Conference Semifinals | Playoff History | Clutch Performance