Watch Winning Time: Reggie Miller vs. The New York Knicks

Winning Time: Reggie Miller vs. The New York Knicks is a thrilling documentary that explores one of the greatest rivalries in NBA history. The film chronicles the fierce battles between the Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks during the late 1990s, with a focus on the intense rivalry between Reggie Miller, the star shooting guard for the Pacers, and Spike Lee, the influential filmmaker and die-hard Knicks fan. The documentary is directed by Dan Klores, who expertly weaves together archival footage, interviews with former players and coaches, and behind-the-scenes perspectives to create a nuanced and compelling portrait of this epic basketball feud. At the heart of the film is the rivalry between Miller and Lee, which serves as a microcosm for the larger cultural and social tensions of the time. The film opens with a thrilling recap of the 1994 NBA playoffs, in which the Pacers and Knicks faced off in a dramatic seven-game series. Miller, who had grown up in New York and famously attended Knicks games as a child, emerges as the star of the series, scoring an incredible eight points in just 8.9 seconds in Game 1 to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. The reaction of Spike Lee, who was seated courtside at the game and had been heckling Miller all night, is one of the most iconic moments in NBA history. From there, the film traces the escalating tensions between Miller and Lee, as well as between their two teams. The Pacers and Knicks were known for their physical, hard-nosed style of play, and the film doesn't shy away from showing the rough-and-tumble nature of their on-court battles. But even amid the violence and intensity of the games, there is a palpable sense of mutual respect between Miller and Lee, two men who are equally passionate about their craft. Throughout the documentary, we hear from a wide range of players, coaches, and journalists who offer their own perspectives on the rivalry. Some, like former Knicks coach Jeff Van Gundy, view Miller as a villain who relished in taunting his opponents and playing the heel. Others, like former Pacers coach Larry Brown, see Miller as a savvy competitor who knew how to get under the skin of his opponents and elevate his game in high-pressure situations. The film also offers a glimpse into the personal lives of Miller and Lee, showing how their respective upbringings and backgrounds shaped their worldviews and their approach to the game. Miller's sister, Cheryl, a basketball superstar in her own right, offers insight into Reggie's competitive drive and his ability to stay cool under pressure. Lee, meanwhile, talks about the role that basketball played in his upbringing as a young black man in Brooklyn, and how his love for the game has informed his work as a filmmaker. Ultimately, Winning Time: Reggie Miller vs. The New York Knicks is a riveting sports documentary that transcends its subject matter to offer a broader exploration of race, culture, and identity in America. Through the lens of this epic basketball rivalry, we get a glimpse into the social and political tensions of the time, and we see how two men from very different backgrounds were able to forge a bond through their shared love of the game. The film is a must-watch for basketball fans and anyone interested in the intersection of sports and culture. It's a masterful piece of storytelling that leaves a lasting impression and reminds us why we love this game so damn much.