25 years later: Looking at the last time the Pacers reached NBA Finals

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Pacers are back in the NBA Finals for the first time in 25 years, reigniting a fervor reminiscent of the year 2000 when they made their inaugural appearance in the championship series.

In the summer of 2000, gas prices hit a staggering $1.60 a gallon. The Indiana Fever, a new addition to the sports landscape, was enjoying its first season, while blockbuster films like “Mission: Impossible 2” topped the box office.

In June of that year, Pacers fans flocked to box offices for tickets to the franchise’s first-ever NBA Finals.

Among those fans was Indy native Tevin Studdard, who recalls the experience vividly.

“I was hyped. I mean, my parents made sure I had to have good grades. I had to beg them. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Studdard said.

The 2000 team boasted legendary players like Reggie Miller, Rik Smits, and Mark Jackson.

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