Tyrese Haliburton shares backstory behind Reggie Miller’s ‘choke sign’ in Pacers vs Knicks Game 1

Tyrese Haliburton continues to be a driving force for the Indiana Pacers, and his decision-making and basketball IQ were on full display in Wednesday night’s Game 1 victory over the New York Knicks in the NBA Playoffs.

With the Pacers trailing by nine points and less than a minute remaining, Haliburton sparked a dramatic comeback. His clutch performance in the final moments included a pivotal basket that forced overtime. He also mimicked Reggie Miller’s iconic “choke” gesture, a move the Pacers legend famously used against the Knicks over two decades ago.

Haliburton hit the game-tying shot to send the contest into overtime, where both teams fought fiercely. Ultimately, Indiana outlasted New York in a thrilling 138–135 win to take a 1–0 lead in the series vs Knicks.

Speaking to the media postgame, Haliburton addressed the symbolic gesture, explaining its inspiration. “I’ve probably watched that ‘Winning Time’ doc about 50 times growing up, so I know they didn’t win the series. Would not like to repeat that,” he said.

Haliburton reflects on tribute to Miller’s iconic ‘choke’ gesture

Tyrese Haliburton opened up about the inspiration behind his own ‘choke sign’ gesture, referencing the iconic moment from Miller depicted in HBO’s ‘Winning Time’. Haliburton explained that it was both a nod to Miller and a personal tribute to a defining moment in Pacers history.

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“It was a historic moment, obviously more for him, but it felt like it was for everyone,” Haliburton said. “I wanted to see his reaction. I think it’s just really cool to continue making my own history here while showing respect to those who came before us.”

Reggie Miller responds to Haliburton’s gesture

The gesture immediately resonated with Pacers fans and NBA observers, who remembered Miller’s original moment vividly. The Pacers legend acknowledged Haliburton’s tribute by pointing at him, signaling both approval and encouragement after the dramatic bucket at the end of regulation.

The moment quickly went viral on social media, sparking memories of Miller’s famous antics and fueling excitement among Indiana fans. As the franchise continues its pursuit of its first NBA championship, having previously won two ABA titles, the connection between past and present felt more meaningful than ever.