Ben Stiller Challenges Pat McAfee Amid Knicks-Pacers NBA Playoffs Tension

During Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers, former NFL punter and ESPN analyst Pat McAfee energized the Indiana crowd by calling out celebrity Knicks fans Spike Lee, Ben Stiller, and Timothée Chalamet, urging fans to "send these sons of b****s back to New York." Stiller, present at the game, responded on social media describing McAfee's remarks as "weird" but expressed respect for Indiana fans, emphasizing that the boos were affectionate and that he held no bitterness over the Knicks' loss. Stiller also explained that McAfee's WWE-style performance was surprising but understood given McAfee's role as a WWE commentator, inviting him to experience the different fan culture at Madison Square Garden for Game 5. Despite the Knicks facing a daunting 3-1 series deficit, Stiller remains a vocal supporter, highlighting the passionate fan atmosphere and calling for respect on both sides. McAfee later acknowledged the respect he holds for the celebrity fans and explained his remarks were part of his assignment to pump up the home crowd. This exchange highlighted the spirited rivalry and the role of celebrity presence in the high-stakes playoff atmosphere.