Kaylah Walton
Pat McAfee fully embraced his controversial persona during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals, where the Indiana Pacers clashed with the New York Knicks. As the Pacers surged ahead in the game’s closing minutes, McAfee took advantage of the moment, electrifying Gainbridge Fieldhouse while targeting New York’s renowned fanatics.
With under 10 minutes left in the fourth quarter and the Pacers commanding a solid 111-96 lead, McAfee’s appearance on the jumbotron sent the crowd into a wild uproar of cheers and booing.
McAfee channels wrestling villain energy targeting NYC’s celebrity attendees
Famed for his larger-than-life presence on The Pat McAfee Show and WWE’s Monday Night Raw, McAfee fully embraced his role as Indiana’s ultimate cheerleader, taking playful jabs at notable Knicks supporters in the audience.
“Look who’s in the house: Spike Lee!” McAfee yelled, prompting a chorus of boos from the audience. He swiftly followed up with, “And Ben Stiller is here too!” inciting even more noise from the crowd.
Then he escalated the banter: “Timothee Chalamet is also in attendance. Let’s send these guys back to New York with ringing ears! Let’s pump this place up!”
The enthusiasm in Gainbridge Fieldhouse was precisely what McAfee intended. In true wrestling style, he playfully nudged Pacers coach Rick Carlisle as he passed, adding to the theatrical atmosphere.
This scene encapsulated the blue-collar spirit of the city and its pride in their team, especially against the star-studded appeal of the Knicks franchise, which frequently entertains major celebrities at its playoff games.
While Madison Square Garden showcased an elite crowd during the first two games, Indiana boasted its own lineup of characters for Game 4.
Notably, rapper and New Yorker 50 Cent appeared on the jumbotron in the fourth quarter, surprisingly siding with the Pacers despite his roots in Queens.
Ultimately, the Pacers clinched a 130-121 win, giving them a 3-1 series advantage as they head into Game 5 at the Garden on Thursday. The Knicks now find themselves facing elimination and must win to prevent being ousted by Indiana for the second consecutive year in the playoffs.
