Pacers’ Pascal Siakam Clashes With Reporter After Game 5 Loss To Knicks

After the Indiana Pacers' Game 5 loss to the New York Knicks, Pacers forward Pascal Siakam had a tense and somewhat confused exchange with Indianapolis Star columnist Gregg Doyel during the post-game press conference. Doyel questioned Siakam on how the Knicks could have played harder than the Pacers, prompting Siakam to bluntly assert that the Knicks simply did play harder and that "that's basketball." The interaction escalated as Siakam asked Doyel if he was "good, bro?" and requested to know the reporter's name, showing his frustration with the line of questioning. This encounter drew attention partly because of Doyel's controversial history, including a previous suspension and ban for inappropriate conduct towards a female athlete. Despite the loss, Siakam was the only Pacers starter to score in double digits, contributing 15 points, six rebounds, and five assists, while the Pacers now prepare to try to close out the series at home in Game 6. The Knicks, led by Jalen Brunson's 32 points, extended the series, setting up a critical matchup back in Indianapolis.