Knicks Win Game 5, Pascal Siakam Clashes with Reporter

NEW YORK, NY – The New York Knicks kept their playoff hopes alive by defeating the Indiana Pacers 111-94 in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals at Madison Square Garden on May 29, 2025. The victory narrowed the Pacers’ series lead to 3-2 as the teams head back to Indianapolis for Game 6.

Despite the loss, Pacers forward Pascal Siakam led his team with 15 points. However, the postgame atmosphere shifted during a press conference where Siakam engaged in a tense exchange with Indianapolis Star columnist Gregg Doyel over the team’s effort.

After the game, Siakam expressed his frustration about the Pacers’ performance, stating, “They played harder than us.” He emphasized the need to win battles for loose balls and rebounds, a statement that highlighted the Pacers’ struggles.

Doyel then questioned Siakam about how it was possible for a team not to play hard enough in a playoff game. Siakam responded, “What are you talking about? They played harder than us. We played hard, but they played harder. What’s your point? I don’t get it.” This exchange escalated, with Siakam asking Doyel, “You good bro? You’re looking for something, I know, but damn.”

The altercation quickly gained traction on social media, with viewers recalling Doyel’s controversial past, including a previous incident that led to his suspension. Many fans defended Siakam, arguing that he was provoked.

On the court, the Pacers struggled to keep up with the Knicks’ Jalen Brunson, who scored 32 points, while Bennedict Mathurin and Obi Toppin contributed 23 and 11 points respectively. As the series shifts to Game 6, the Pacers will aim to clinch their spot in the NBA Finals.