Fri May 30 01:30:00 UTC 2025: **Pacers Stun Knicks, Series Tied 2-0, Thanks to Unexpected Contribution from Tony Bradley**
NEW YORK – In a stunning turn of events, the Indiana Pacers defeated the New York Knicks 114-109 in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals, taking a commanding 2-0 series lead. While Pascal Siakam’s 39 points led the scoring charge, the game’s most surprising element was the unexpected emergence of Tony Bradley, a former first-round pick who hadn’t seen significant NBA action in years.
Knicks center Mitchell Robinson’s dominant play forced Pacers coach Rick Carlisle to make an unconventional move early in the game. Robinson’s offensive rebounding and ability to draw fouls on Myles Turner and Thomas Bryant prompted Carlisle to insert Bradley, who had only played 16 minutes in the entire playoffs leading up to Friday night.
The move raised eyebrows across the NBA world, with fans expressing surprise at Bradley’s presence on the court. Despite the initial shock, Bradley delivered a solid performance in his eight minutes of play, contributing a point and two rebounds, and helping to stabilize the Pacers’ defense.
Carlisle praised Bradley’s rebounding ability, saying he was brought in to lessen the load on Turner. Star guard Tyrese Haliburton also commended Bradley for staying ready and contributing in a pivotal moment. Bradley himself remained humble, stating, “Just ready when my name was called. I work hard every day, staying in shape, just being a good teammate.”
Bradley’s journey back to the NBA is a testament to perseverance. After winning a national championship with North Carolina in 2017 and bouncing around several NBA teams, he spent time in the G League before landing in Indiana. His unexpected contribution in a crucial playoff game is a remarkable chapter in his career, and a significant factor in the Pacers’ early series lead.
First Piper 