Officials were at the center of attention in Monday’s Game 1 clash between the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers. Despite an exciting finish at Madison Square Garden, two controversial late calls proved costly for the Pacers, allowing the Knicks to secure a dramatic 121-117 victory. However, it was later revealed that officials had admitted to making an incorrect call.
With the game tied at 115-115 in the final minute, Knicks guard Jalen Brunson dribbled the ball over halfcourt and delivered an errant pass that bounced off the hand of Pacers guard Aaron Nesmith. Indiana teammate Andrew Nembhard seemed to have gained possession of the ball, indicating a turnover. However, officials whistled a kick ball on Nesmith, which resulted in the Knicks retaining possession. Nesmith protested the call, but it was to no avail.
Just twelve seconds later, Donte DiVincenzo hit a pivotal 3-pointer, giving the Knicks a 118-115 lead. The Pacers had a chance to regain the lead, with possession and the clock ticking under 20 seconds. Tyrese Haliburton dribbled over halfcourt, and Myles Turner set a screen on his defender DiVincenzo. Controversially, DiVincenzo fell to the floor, and officials called a moving screen on Turner. This decision drew immediate criticism from TNT analyst Stan Van Gundy, who called it a “shocking” call.
The Pacers didn’t have the opportunity to challenge the call as kick balls aren’t eligible for replay review. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle chose not to comment on the officiating postgame. However, Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers, who had recently been eliminated by the Knicks, expressed his dissatisfaction with the late controversial calls on social media.
In a postgame review, crew chief Zach Zarba acknowledged that the kick-ball call was incorrect.