“Missed the dunk” - NBA world goes on a throwback ride as former Los Angeles Lakers’ centre Shaquille O’Neal fails to block a dunk attempt by the Indiana Pacers’ mascot

NBA fans didn’t miss the moment of having a throwback thought to the times when the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Indiana Pacers at the NBA finals of the year 2000. Ahead of the Pacers' game 3 match against the New York Knicks of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Pacers’ mascot, Boomer, went for a dunk at a dummy hoop with an unaware former Lakers’ centre player, Shaquille O’Neal, in between them. The hilariously successful dunk got the attention of the fans, who drew reference to the 2000 NBA finals.The Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks faced each other for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals on May 25, 2025. Towards the end of the match, the Pacers take a step towards the NBA finals with a 2-1 lead, while the Knicks need to secure another win in order to keep their chances of entry to the finals intact. Prior to the game, amid the intense environment that is prevalent within the court, the Pacers’ mascot named Boomer, created a lighthearted moment with a hilarious dunk attempt.As the NBA analyst and former centre player seemed to be occupied scrolling through his phone, a hoop was set up behind him with Boomer preparing his shot at a distance. Having prepared enough, the Mascot lunged at an unaware Shaq, making the shot and falling onto his lap. The lighthearted moment was a kind of relief for the fans of both teams, who were about to go down on the court with their respective aims and expectations from the game. One of the fans even referred to the 2000 NBA Finals, where the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Pacers with a point standing of 4-2. Shaq was part of the Lakers from the year 1996 to the year 2004 before signing with the Miami Heat. “Yah that’s for 2000 @SHAQ @NBAonTNT DUNK ON YOUR HEAD!!”Another user wrote, “Probably payback for the 2000 NBA Finals”“Missed the dunk. Knicks in 6.”Also read: Stephen Curry and Ayesha Curry enjoy a relaxed outing amid NBA offseason breakWhile the off-court humor was fine, keeping the fans engaged and relaxed, the New York Knicks put up a stunning performance, capturing a win in Game 3 against the Pacers. The Pacers are still leading the Conference Finals with a 2-1 lead. With four more games remaining, the Pacers need two more wins to solidify their entry into the finals.