Minutes before the New York Knicks season officially ended, Jalen Brunson committed a shocking act by headbutting Indiana Pacers rival Andrew Nembhard.
In the middle of the fourth quarter, the result was well in-hand as the Knicks were down by double digits.
Frustrated with his performance and how New York’s season was about to end, Brunson launched his head in the direction of Nembhard.
After the act was made, Nembhard looked shocked and tried to get the attention of the referees for a foul call.
No call was doled out to Brunson as Game 6 continued, ending the Knicks’ valiant season in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Some Knicks fans online have claimed it was a dive from Nembhard, as Brunson did not make contact with the Pacers star’s face.
Jalen Brunson committed a shocking act with headbutting Pacers rival Andrew Nembhard
After the act was made, Nembhard looked shocked and tried to get the attention of the referees
Brunson’s final game of the year saw him finish with 19 points on 18 field goal attempts, alongside five turnovers, in the 125-108 loss.
Nembhard had 14 points, eight assists, and an uncanny six steals to help Indiana qualify for the NBA Finals for the first time since 2000.
The Pacers will not have home-court advantage for a third straight playoff series as they face the Oklahoma City Thunder with a title on the line.
Brunson’s act will likely still be reviewed for any malicious intent by the league office, regardless of the Knicks being eliminated.
Even with the disappointment from New York, the Knicks had their best season this century and will look to keep their core roster intact for next year.
