Pacer Superfan Thrives in Knick Territory

The Indiana Pacers face off against the New York Knicks in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals, following their thrilling comeback in Game 1. Among the sea of Knicks fans is Andrew Holder, a self-proclaimed Pacers superfan.

“Being a Pacer fan in enemy territory feels good, man,” Holder said.

A resident of New York for most of his life, Holder has been a loyal Pacers supporter since the early 1990s, when he witnessed a memorable regular season game featuring Reggie Miller and Michael Jordan.

Despite the challenges of cheering for his favorite team in a rival city, Holder embraces it. “I get a lot of flak for being a Pacer fan in New York,” he admitted.

Holder connects with fellow fans by live-streaming his reactions on TikTok. Since the Pacers' playoff run, his viewership has surged. “During my livestream, I hit nearly 27 thousand viewers during Game 1,” he said, showcasing the growing enthusiasm for the team.

David Pierce, Ph.D., a professor of sport management at Indiana University Indianapolis, noted that hosting an Eastern Conference Finals can have a significant economic impact. “As the economic impact increases for each round, you’re looking at a good $55 to $60 million impact for the NBA playoffs,” he explained.

As the Pacers continue their journey through the Eastern Conference Finals, fans like Holder remain optimistic and loud in their support. “It’s a great feeling to be a Pacer fan living here in New York – at least as long as the Pacers keep winning,” he added with a smile.