The New York Knicks entered Thursday night's game against the Indiana Pacers, riding a six-game win-streak, including Tuesday's NBA Cup title over the San Antonio Spurs.
On top of that, New York began play Thursday having won 10 of their last 11 matchups. On paper, the Knicks were heavy favorites to the 6-20 Pacers, but the game turned out to be much more competitive than originally anticipated.
Trailing by 11 at the end of the first quarter, New York narrowed the deficit slightly, trailing by six points heading into the final frame.
The Knicks battled back, with Jalen Brunson knocking down a go-ahead three-pointer with less than five seconds remaining. Then, OG Anunoby sealed the game with a steal on Indiana's final possession, prohibiting them from getting a final shot attempt.
Brunson led the way for the Knicks, scoring 25 points for the second straight game to go along with seven rebounds, seven assists and three steals.
After the game however, despite sinking the game-winning shot, Brunson was quick to praise one of his teammates. "I want to thank the Lord for Tyler Kolek," said Brunson.
Taking over backup point guard duties in place of the injured Miles McBride, Kolek has performed well in recent games. Against the Pacers, Kolek had a double-double, scoring 16 points on 7-for-10 shooting to go along with 11 assists.
As Landry Shamet continues to recover from a shoulder injury, Kolek should see his opportunities increase off the bench.
New York will play the Philadelphia 76ers Friday night, the second night of a back-to-back.