Scottie Pippen and Michael Jordan's once-celebrated partnership faced turbulence over the years, marked by public disputes and tensions. Yet, during Pippen's Hall of Fame induction in 2010, their bond was undeniable. Jordan presented Pippen, a fitting gesture that highlighted their legacy as a dominant duo leading the Chicago Bulls to six championships. Pippen expressed profound gratitude, stating that he couldn't imagine anyone better to share that moment with. Their history, rich with accolades and mutual respect, serves as a reminder of the greatness they accomplished together.

Despite the later strain on their relationship, Pippen's heartfelt words during the ceremony encapsulated a time when their partnership thrived, emphasizing the love and admiration he held for Jordan. The ceremony not only celebrated Pippen's achievements but also reignited the appreciation for their shared legacy, making it clear that their connection, though tested, has roots in profound respect and camaraderie.

The New York Knicks are shifting their focus from external coaching candidates to those currently available, set to interview Taylor Jenkins and Mike Brown next week. Jenkins, recently let go by the Memphis Grizzlies, is regarded as one of the winningest coaches in franchise history, while Brown has a wealth of experience, having previously coached the Sacramento Kings and Cleveland Cavaliers.

In addition to these interviews, the Knicks are considering reaching out to currently employed coaches, including Jason Kidd of the Dallas Mavericks and Billy Donovan of the Chicago Bulls, both of whom might be seeking contract extensions from their teams. If those negotiations falter, they could become potential candidates for the Knicks. The team is also exploring options with assistant coaches, including Johnnie Bryant, a former Knicks assistant now with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The firing of Tom Thibodeau, who guided the Knicks to their first Eastern Conference Finals in 25 years, has left the franchise in a transitional phase. The Knicks are taking their time to ensure they find the right candidate before moving forward with a hire.

The NBA Finals has reached a pivotal moment as the Oklahoma City Thunder clinched Game 4 with a 111-104 victory, now making the series a best-of-three. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander shined with 35 points, leading the Thunder, while Pascal Siakam topped the Pacers with 20 points in a tightly contested match.

Starting the game, the Thunder altered their lineup, opting for a bigger front with Isaiah Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren. The Pacers, known for their quick offensive plays, initially took the lead with Myles Turner’s effective high-post play. However, as the game progressed, defensive intensity surged with Siakam's four steals, leading to fast breaks that kept Indiana competitive.

Despite a solid start, Indiana struggled with shot selection in the second quarter, allowing the Thunder to build momentum. The game intensified after a flagrant foul by Obi Toppin on Alex Caruso, sparking physicality on both ends. As the third quarter unfolded, the Pacers extended their lead but couldn't maintain their advantage due to poor shooting from beyond the arc.

With the game on the line, Indiana attempted to fight back, but crucial turnovers paved the way for the Thunder to seize the lead late in the fourth. Gilgeous-Alexander's clutch shot sealed the win, sending the series back to Oklahoma City, where stakes will be high.

On this day in Boston Celtics history, Paul Pierce dramatically showcased his resilience during Game 1 of the 2008 NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers. After a collision with teammate Kendrick Perkins left him seemingly incapacitated, Pierce returned from the locker room to spark a crucial win for Boston, ultimately contributing to their 17th championship title. This game, famously dubbed the 'wheelchair game,' highlighted Pierce's legendary toughness and determination.

Additionally, today marks the birthday of former Celtics guard Marcus Thornton, who had a brief stint with the team after being traded from the Brooklyn Nets. Remembered for his scoring ability, Thornton averaged 8.9 points in his 39 games with Boston. Lastly, the day also honors the late Meyer 'Mike' Bloom, a former Celtic who played a brief but impactful role in the franchise's early years.

Spike Lee, a fervent New York Knicks supporter, has indicated the lengths he would go to for his team to win an NBA championship, even suggesting he would trade one of his Academy Awards. In a light-hearted moment before the Knicks' critical Game 5 against the Indiana Pacers, he declared on 'Inside the NBA' that he would happily give up an Oscar, a significant gesture given the franchise's long championship drought.

The Knicks have not won an NBA title since 1973 and have been absent from the Finals since 1999. Lee, a two-time Oscar winner, voiced his passionate hope for a Knicks victory amidst a backdrop of celebrity support at the games. His comments were humorously met with skepticism from former MVP Charles Barkley, who quipped that Lee would 'keep them.'

The lively atmosphere surrounding the playoffs was further fueled by the presence of Indianapolis Colts legend Pat McAfee, who took a jab at Knicks fans, inciting responses from notable supporters like John Mellencamp, who criticized McAfee for his lack of sportsmanship. As the playoffs intensify, the Knicks' journey remains a focal point for fans and celebrities alike.