The NBA has seen many incredible moments. One such moment occurred on this date back in 1998: The Chicago Bulls defeated the Indiana Pacers in Game 7.
Related: Reggie Miller wants to fight Michael Jordan: “I probably would take a swing on Mike if I saw him”
In 1998, everyone knew the Bulls would win the East and ultimately, the title. It was rumored to be Michael Jordan’s last season, so he had to go out on top. Right?
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The Pacers were a strong-willed team, led by a guard who was looking to take MJ’s place: Reggie Miller. This was the Pacers’ best chance at winning a championship, as their entire team was clicking.
The Pacers were also enjoying the leadership from first-year head coach, Larry Bird. It was Indiana’s time to shine. Chicago was old and very vulnerable.
Pacers blow Game 7
The Pacers may have been in Chicago for Game 7, but that didn’t faze them. Indiana jumped out early, hitting their first eight shots. Chicago would battle back, taking a 48-45 lead into halftime.
In the second half, both teams kept throwing their best punches, yet, no one would really take control of the game. With five minutes left in the game, the score was tied 79-79 and it was appearing that the Pacers really might steal the game and series.
Then, the Bulls took over, led by their relentless defense. Chicago would outscore Indiana 9-4 in the remainder of the fourth, securing an 88-83 victory.
It wasn’t Jordan’s best game, as he scored 28 points, but shot just 9-25. MJ got help from his teammates, as Scottie Pippen scored 17 points, while adding 12 rebounds.
It was Pippen’s defense, the entire team’s effort, and the shooting of Steve Kerr and Toni Kukoc that secured Chicago’s victory.
As for the Pacers, Miller scored 22 points on 7-13 shooting, including 4-7 from three. Miller’s only problem was aggressiveness, as he only attempted one shot in the fourth quarter.
The Pacers failed to reach the NBA Finals in 1998, something they hope to avoid in 2025. Indiana faces the New York Knicks tonight in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals.
If the Pacers win, they book their second trip to the Finals. If they lose tonight and eventually Game 7 and the series, a repeat of their 1998 series vs. the Bulls will come back to haunt them forever.
