Reggie Miller

Reggie Miller: The Knick Killer

Reggie Miller, a name synonymous with clutch performances, unwavering confidence, and a healthy dose of animosity from opposing fans, solidified his place as one of the NBA’s most iconic figures. His 18-year career, spent entirely with the Indiana Pacers, transformed him from a skinny UCLA product into a sharpshooting legend and a constant thorn in the side of teams, particularly the New York Knicks.

Drafted 11th overall in 1987, Miller initially faced skepticism from Pacers fans who preferred local hero Steve Alford. However, his dedication and relentless work ethic quickly silenced the critics. He possessed a unique combination of lightning-quick release, incredible stamina, and a knack for creating space, allowing him to consistently drain shots over taller defenders. While not the most physically imposing player, Miller compensated with intelligence, cunning, and an unparalleled ability to draw fouls.

Miller’s impact extended far beyond his impressive scoring stats. He was a vocal leader, fiercely competitive, and deeply committed to the Pacers franchise. He helped build a winning culture in Indiana, leading the team to multiple playoff appearances and a trip to the NBA Finals in 2000, where they faced the dominant Los Angeles Lakers. Although they ultimately fell short, Miller’s performance throughout the playoffs cemented his legacy as a true superstar.

His most memorable moments often came against the New York Knicks, earning him the enduring moniker “The Knick Killer.” The animosity between Miller and Knicks fans reached fever pitch during the 1990s, fueled by intense playoff battles and Miller’s penchant for silencing Madison Square Garden with clutch shots. The most infamous instance occurred in Game 5 of the 1995 Eastern Conference Semifinals, where Miller scored eight points in 8.9 seconds, completing an improbable Pacers comeback that left Knicks fans stunned and heartbroken.

Beyond the Knicks rivalry, Miller delivered numerous other unforgettable performances. His game-winning shot against the New Jersey Nets in the 1994 playoffs, his 39-point outburst against the Orlando Magic in Game 1 of the 1995 Eastern Conference Finals, and countless other clutch moments etched his name into NBA lore. He understood the importance of pressure situations and thrived under them, consistently delivering when his team needed him most.

Reggie Miller retired in 2005, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history. He finished his career with over 25,000 points and ranks among the league’s all-time leaders in three-pointers made. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012, a fitting tribute to a player who embodied hard work, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in his own abilities. While his on-court battles may have faded, the name Reggie Miller continues to evoke strong emotions, particularly among Knicks fans, serving as a reminder of his remarkable career and his uncanny ability to break hearts in the Garden.