Reggie Miller
The man who tormented the Knicks in the playoffs and defined an era of Indiana basketball excellence.
via Wikipedia: Reggie Miller · see source
Reginald Wayne Miller (born August 24, 1965) is an American former professional basketball player who played his entire 18-year NBA career with the Indiana Pacers. A five-time All-Star and Hall of Fame inductee (2012), he was widely recognized as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, known for precision three-point shooting under pressure—especially against the New York Knicks, earning the nickname "Knick Killer." Miller held the NBA record for most career three-pointers at retirement; as of 2026, his 2,560 threes rank seventh all-time. He led the league in free throw percentage five times, won Olympic gold in 1996, and had his jersey number 31 retired by the Pacers in 2006. After playing, he became an NBA commentator for TNT and a college basketball analyst for CBS Sports.
- Role
- Shooting Guard
- Affiliation
- Indiana Pacers (NBA)
- First appears
- 1987 NBA Draft
- Status
- Retired / Hall of Fame Inductee
- Jersey Number
- 31
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Miller's lore is built on specific, unforgettable moments. On May 7, 1995, he scored eight points in 8.9 seconds in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Knicks—two three-pointers, a steal, and two free throws—stunning Madison Square Garden. In Game 5 of the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals, he dropped 39 points (25 in the fourth quarter) in a 93–86 win, jawing with courtside fan Spike Lee. He hit a game-winning three over Michael Jordan with 0.7 seconds left in Game 4 of the 1998 Eastern Conference Finals. In the 2000 Eastern Conference Finals, he sealed Game 6 with 34 points (17 in the fourth quarter) to send the Pacers to their first NBA Finals. Miller also scored a career-high 57 points against the Charlotte Hornets on November 28, 1992—still the Pacers' NBA franchise record.
In Their Own Story
The air inside Madison Square Garden was thick with tension as the clock ticked down to single digits. The Knicks held a slim lead, their fans baying for blood. Reggie Miller, having already exchanged pleasantries with Spike Lee at courtside, took the inbound pass. With a calm that belied the chaos around him, he pump-faked, sidestepped a defender, and let fly from deep. The net barely moved. The Garden fell silent. Miller turned, blew a kiss toward the jeering crowd, and history was made in the span of seconds.
Reader's Guide
The Reggie Miller Era (1987–2005) stands as the golden chapter of Indiana Pacers history, transforming the franchise from a struggling expansion team into a respected Eastern Conference force. This period was defined by Miller's unparalleled longevity and his ability to elevate the team whenever it mattered most. His presence brought national attention to Indianapolis, making the Pacers a household name across the league. Miller's impact extended beyond statistics; he embodied the grit and resilience that became synonymous with the club's identity. Under his leadership, the Pacers consistently punched above their weight in the playoffs, often challenging dynasties like the Bulls and Knicks. His retirement marked not just the end of a career, but the closing of an era where individual brilliance and team toughness were perfectly balanced. This chapter matters because it established the Pacers as a legitimate contender. Miller's legacy is etched into the fabric of the franchise, serving as the benchmark for future generations. His story reminds fans that heart, skill, and determination can overcome any obstacle, cementing his place as the greatest player in team history.
Did You Know?
- Miller was born with hip deformities that required leg braces for several years before his leg strength compensated.
- His older sister Cheryl, a Hall of Fame basketball player, used to beat him in 1-on-1 games until he could block her shots—which he says shaped his unorthodox shooting style.
- Miller scored 57 points against the Charlotte Hornets on November 28, 1992, still the Pacers' NBA franchise record.
- He scored eight points in 8.9 seconds in Game 1 of the 1995 Eastern Conference Semifinals against the New York Knicks.
- Miller led the NBA in free throw percentage five times and won a gold medal at the 1996 Summer Olympics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Reggie Miller?
Reggie Miller was a legendary shooting guard who played his entire 18-year NBA career for the Indiana Pacers from 1987 to 2005. He is widely considered the greatest player in franchise history and wears jersey number 31.
What were Reggie Miller's key skills?
Known for his exceptional three-point shooting, Miller possessed icy veins during clutch moments that often defined playoff outcomes. His competitive fire and ability to hit dagger shots made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
How did Reggie Miller impact the Pacers?
Miller transformed the franchise from an expansion-era afterthought into a perennial Eastern Conference powerhouse throughout the 1990s. He led the team to multiple playoff runs and established a culture of toughness in Indianapolis.
What is Reggie Miller's legacy with the Knicks?
His rivalry with the New York Knicks became iconic, particularly after he scored eight points in 8.9 seconds during the 1995 playoffs to eliminate them. This performance cemented his reputation as a player who thrived under pressure against top competition.
What happened to Reggie Miller after retirement?
Following his retirement, Miller was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame for his illustrious contributions to the game. He remains an ambassador for the Pacers and is celebrated as the undisputed face of their basketball history.
More in Club History & Eras
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