In the 1990s, Indiana Pacers legend Reggie Miller and New York Knicks superfan Spike Lee had one of the most interesting rivalries in the NBA.
Between 1993 and 2000, the Pacers and Knicks met in the playoffs six times. During that span, the Pacers star and Lee clashed on numerous occasions. Most notably, Miller made a choking gesture directed at Lee during Game 5 of their 1994 Eastern Conference Finals series (YouTube link).
For many years, the rivalry between the Pacers and the Knicks was at a standstill. However, after last season’s playoff game, the the rivalry seems to be backThere is genuine warmth between the two fans, and their respective stars might even end up in a one-on-one battle off the field to prove their superiority.
However, while the rivalry between the two teams is back, the same cannot be said for Miller and Lee.
During a recent appearance at Fanatics Fest 2024, the legendary director opened up about his relationship with Miller. Lee made it clear that the two are no longer in conflict and have not been for a long time, saying “that [expletive] “This happened more than 20 years ago.”
“You know I don’t like them, but Reg and I are cool… This shit happened over 20 years ago. People still come up to me and Reggie and ask if we hate each other. There’s no hate between Reggie and me, we’re all good.”
Interestingly, Miller spoke about his long-standing rivalry with Lee last year and also made it clear that there was no hatred between the two. However, Miller also made it known that while his relationship with Lee is “in a better place,” the Pacers legend still hates the Knicks and “will always have disdain” for the team.
“He’s the face of the Knicks. I love him. We’re in a better place in our relationship now. We’re a lot friendlier when we see each other. He’s a good guy. But in those moments and deep down, I’ll always have a disdain for the New York Knicks.
While Miller and Lee had an intense rivalry in the 1990s, it seems that it is now officially over and has been for some time. However, the rivalry between the Pacers and Knicks is only just reigniting.
The Pacers will face the Knicks at Madison Square Garden on national television on Oct. 25. It will be the first time the two teams have faced each other since the Pacers ended New York’s playoff run last season at the Garden.
While unlikely, it will be fun to see if a new Lee-Miller-style rivalry blossoms as the two teams continue their battle near the top of the Eastern Conference.
