Isaiah Hartenstein’s jaw-dropping half-court buzzer-beater not only electrified the crowd but also altered the momentum in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. Facing a nine-point deficit against the Indiana Pacers, the New York Knicks were in dire need of a game-changer as they headed into halftime.
Hartenstein’s incredible 46-foot shot right at the halftime buzzer brought the Knicks back into contention, keeping them within striking distance of the Pacers. According to ESPN Stats & Information, this shot stands as the longest field goal of Hartenstein’s career, both in the regular season and playoffs.
The significance of this shot is further highlighted by the fact that it is the longest field goal by a Knicks player in a playoff game since at least the start of the play-by-play era in 1996-97.
Despite the Pacers outscoring the Knicks by nine points in the second quarter, the game took a turn with Hartenstein’s spectacular shot. The Knicks, known for their comeback prowess, demonstrated resilience, having won all three games in their first-round series against the Philadelphia 76ers despite trailing at halftime.
In the first half, Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart played pivotal roles for the Knicks. Brunson scored 18 points, while Hart contributed 11 points and 7 rebounds, collectively accounting for 39 of New York’s 49 first-half points.