Pacers Celebrate Historic Advancement
INDIANAPOLIS — Myles Turner addressed a thrilled crowd that would have happily celebrated all night. The Pacers had just defeated the New York Knicks, 125-108, in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference finals, marking their first appearance in the NBA Finals in 25 years. As the longest-serving Pacer, Turner expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the city.
Overcoming Challenges
Turner reflected on embracing adversity and the journey of the underdog, highlighting the struggle for respect. “People don’t watch us,” he remarked while his teammate, Thomas Bryant, visibly struggled to contain his emotions.
Emotional Victory
Bryant, wearing the Eastern Conference champion gear, was overcome with emotion as tears streamed down his face during Turner’s speech. His tears were a mix of pain and pride, symbolizing both struggles and successes. “You have to believe when nobody else does, sometimes even when you don’t believe it yourself,” he shared in the locker room afterward. “There were times I never thought I’d see the court again.”
From Uncertainty to Success
A few months prior, Bryant was largely overlooked, having received several DNPs with a struggling Miami Heat team. After injuries to the Pacers’ backup centers, Indiana traded for Bryant in December. His role was to enhance the frontcourt while Turner rested. However, when it mattered most, Bryant emerged as a key player, achieving a playoff career-high with 11 points, three rebounds, and one block in just 13 minutes.
Making an Impact
Bryant made significant contributions in Game 6, including a pivotal blocked shot that ignited a fast break leading to an important and-1 layup by Pascal Siakam. “T.B. brings that energy no matter the circumstances,” praised teammate Aaron Nesmith. Bryant not only scored crucial points but also galvanized the crowd and his teammates with his spirited play.
Resilience Pays Off
After fluctuating in the roster, including being benched during earlier games of the series, Bryant seized his moment when called upon. His revitalized performance was described by Siakam as a gift from “the basketball Gods.” Coach Rick Carlisle commended Bryant’s indomitable spirit, and Turner acknowledged his professionalism throughout his ups and downs.
Aiming for More
Bryant, a New York native and former Indiana University standout, recognized the significance of sending the Knicks packing with a stellar performance as a Pacer. He aims to prove himself further in the upcoming NBA Finals against Oklahoma City. Having experienced the playoffs before, he is eager to make a more substantial impact this time around, emphasizing the importance of resilience no matter the adversity faced.
