The Indiana Pacers' Game 4 victory over the New York Knicks wasn't just a win on the scoreboard; it was a spectacle fueled by the energy of Pat McAfee, who took center stage to rally the home crowd. However, his WWE-style antics, which included calling out celebrity Knicks fans like Spike Lee, Ben Stiller, and Timothée Chalamet, have sparked a controversy that has now led to McAfee making a significant decision ahead of Game 5 in New York.

McAfee's actions in Indianapolis, where he grabbed a mic and urged the crowd to "send these sons of bitches back to New York with their ears ringing," were met with thunderous applause from Pacers fans. The Pacers went on to win Game 4, taking a 3-1 lead in the series. However, the former NFL punter's theatrics didn't sit well with everyone, particularly Indiana icon John Mellencamp.

In a statement posted on X, Mellencamp expressed his embarrassment at McAfee's behavior, writing, "I was embarrassed when somebody… called out some of the people who had made the trip from New York to support their team." While Mellencamp didn't directly name McAfee, he made his feelings clear, stating that it was "poor, poor sportsmanship" and that he "was not proud to be a Hoosier." McAfee responded with a terse "I am 'somebody,'" seemingly confirming the tension between the two Indiana figures.

The backlash from Mellencamp and others appears to have influenced McAfee's decision regarding Game 5. On Wednesday, McAfee announced on X, "I will not be at Madison Square Garden tonight." This decision comes as a surprise to many, as McAfee's presence and energy have become a prominent part of the Pacers' playoff run.

The incident has ignited a debate about sportsmanship and the role of celebrity fans in professional sports. Some argue that McAfee was simply hyping up the home crowd and creating an exciting atmosphere, while others believe his actions crossed the line and were disrespectful to visiting fans.

Regardless of one's stance, the controversy surrounding McAfee's actions has added another layer of intrigue to an already captivating Eastern Conference Finals series. With the Pacers on the verge of eliminating the Knicks, Game 5 at Madison Square Garden promises to be an intense and highly charged affair, even without McAfee's presence. Whether his absence will affect the Pacers' performance remains to be seen, but the situation has undoubtedly added fuel to the rivalry between these two teams.