”I Thought Those Calls Could’ve Gone Our Way” : Tom Thibodeau Reflects on Game 3

483 days ago

Following the New York Knicks" victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinal, both coaches had their say on the officiating, albeit with differing tones.

After Game 2, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle voiced frustration with the officiating, resulting in a hefty $35,000 fine. In contrast, Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau"s remarks after Game 3 were more measured, acknowledging potential missed calls but refraining from criticism until reviewing the film.

"From my vantage point, I thought those calls could’ve gone our way, but I’m not gonna comment until I look at the film, We’ve just got to find a way to win. That’s the bottom line." : Carlisle said.

Tom Thibodeau on Game 3: ‘I thought those calls could’ve gone our way’ https://t.co/jlVCbVMl0M

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) May 11, 2024

The intensity of playoff basketball always amplifies scrutiny on officiating, and this series has been no exception. With all three games tightly contested until the final minutes, every call has come under heightened scrutiny.

As the series progresses, further commentary on officiating will likely arise, especially if the games continue to be closely contested. Ultimately, both teams remain focused on finding ways to secure victories and advance in the postseason.

Pacers Secure Thrilling Victory Over Knicks in Game 3

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – DECEMBER 08: Myles Turner #33 of the Indiana Pacers shoots the ball against the New York Knicks at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on December 08, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

The Indiana Pacers secured a thrilling 111-106 victory over the New York Knicks in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series in Indianapolis, thanks to Andrew Nembhard"s clutch 3-pointer with just 17.8 seconds left on the clock. Despite the win, the Knicks still hold a 2-1 series lead as the teams gear up for Game 4 on Sunday.

Nembhard"s decisive shot came after Jalen Brunson had tied the game for the Knicks with a 3-pointer. Nembhard, who had struggled with his shooting earlier in the game, came through in the clutch to put the Pacers ahead for good. Tyrese Haliburton led the charge for Indiana with an impressive 35-point performance, accompanied by seven assists. Pascal Siakam contributed 26 points, while Myles Turner posted a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds.

Donte DiVincenzo led the charge for the Knicks with 35 points, but his efforts were not enough to secure the win. Despite Brunson"s 26-point effort and solid performances from Alec Burks and Josh Hart, New York couldn"t overcome Indiana"s late surge.

The game saw momentum swings, with Indiana taking control in the third quarter before New York rallied back with a 24-6 run. However, the Pacers responded with a decisive late-game push to claim the victory.

Off the court, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle was fined $35,000 by the NBA for comments criticizing officiating and questioning the league"s integrity following Game 2.

As the series heats up, both teams will be looking to gain the upper hand in Game 4 as they continue their quest for a spot in the Eastern Conference Finals.