The Eastern Conference Finals got started on Tuesday night as the Boston Celtics hosted the Indiana Pacers in game one. It ended up taking overtime, but the Celtics found a way to get a win after getting a major scare from the Pacers. Indiana had a five-point lead with under two minutes remaining, and they also had the ball up by three with under 10 seconds to play. It looked like they had the game wrapped up, but they turned the ball over, and Jaylen Brown then hit a three to send the game to overtime.

Indiana got out to an early lead in overtime as well, and they were in a good position to win the game once again, but the Celtics found a way to come back. The Pacers led by two with a little over one minute remaining, but Boston ended up winning the game by five, 133-128.

Getting a win in game one on the road would've been massive for the Pacers. They are big underdogs in this series, and they were big underdogs in this game as well. Getting a win on the road to kick things off would've completely changed the perception of the series.

Unfortunately for the Pacers, they couldn't get it done. They had their chances, but the Celtics are now up 1-0 in the series.

NBA world reacts to Pacers' meltdown

Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) steals the ball from Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday (4) during the second half for game one of the eastern conference finals for the 2024 NBA playoffs at TD Garden.
© Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

All eyes of the NBA world were watching this game as it was the only playoff game happening on Tuesday night. The Pacers had it in the bag, and then everything fell apart.

There are no ifs, ands or buts about it, the Pacers simply choked in game one.

Things were looking good for the Pacers for awhile, but when it came down to it, they just fell apart.

The Pacers still had a chance to win the game in overtime after the disappointing finish to regulation, but they couldn't get it done either. When it came to closing the game, they just couldn't get it done.

Everybody knows the famous Reggie Miller choke meme. Unfortunately for the Pacers, that one is going to be used a lot after game one.

This choke was bad, but it doesn't compare to Miami fumbling when they could've taken a knee to end the game.

Game one goes to the Celtics, and they are now up 1-0 in the series. Game two will be back in Boston, and it will be on Thursday. The game will start at 8:00 ET and it will be airing on ESPN. The Celtics are favored by 9.5 points.