The fourth-seeded Pacers booked their return to the Eastern Conference Finals with Tuesday night’s 114-105 victory over the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers, wrapping up a stunning series victory in only five games. Haliburton led the way with 31 points on 10-of-15 shooting, including 6-of-10 on 3-pointers, along with eight assists and six rebounds.

Haliburton reflected on the criticism that has been levied his way over the years. Notably, an anonymous poll of his NBA peers by The Athletic proclaimed the 6-foot-5 Iowa State product to be the league's most overrated player. He appears to have taken umbrage with that designation.

Indiana has not made the NBA Finals since 2000, and has never won an NBA title. Rick Carlisle last coached in the Finals with the Dallas Mavericks in 2011, and he knows his team is close.

May 13, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) celebrates after hitting a three point basket during the first half against the Cleveland Cavaliers in game five of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images / Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

For a second straight year, the Pacers are eight wins away from their first-ever NBA title. Here's how it went down.