Pacers Defeat Knicks 138-135 Overtime Mary J. Blige Halftime Show

During Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden, Mary J. Blige delivered a captivating halftime performance that energized both the crowd and TNT's "Inside the NBA" broadcast team. Shaquille O'Neal and Kenny Smith were notably caught dancing along to Blige's music, providing a lighthearted and memorable moment amid a fiercely competitive game that ended with the Pacers winning in overtime. The Knicks, returning to the conference finals for the first time in decades, initially led by 17 points, but Tyrese Haliburton's clutch plays helped the Pacers overcome a 14-point deficit late in the game. Celebrity attendees such as Timothee Chalamet and NBA legends like Stephon Marbury and Carmelo Anthony also added to the atmosphere. While Shaq and Smith embraced the halftime groove enthusiastically, Charles Barkley maintained a more reserved demeanor, underscoring the diverse reactions among the broadcast team. Blige's performance was widely appreciated, reinforcing her connection to New York and adding to the excitement surrounding the series.