The reporter who found himself in a tense exchange with Indiana Pacers star Pascal Siakam following the team's Game 5 loss to the New York Knicks on Thursday, May 29, 2025, is Gregg Doyel, a columnist for the Indianapolis Star. This isn't the first time Doyel's conduct at a press conference has drawn scrutiny.

Doyel's interaction with Siakam occurred after the Pacers' 111-94 defeat, a game in which Siakam felt the Knicks played with greater intensity. When Siakam stated that the Knicks "played harder than us," Doyel questioned, "How is that possible?". This prompted an awkward back-and-forth where Siakam questioned Doyel's motives, asking, "You good, bro? You're looking for something, I know, but damn." He also inquired, "Who's this guy? What's your name, bro?".

Doyel's line of questioning was viewed by some as an attempt to bait Siakam into a specific response. Others, like sports media personality Jason Whitlock, defended Doyel, arguing that his questions were not out of bounds and that Siakam's response was also acceptable. However, many social media users criticized Doyel's approach, citing his history of making players uncomfortable.

The incident with Siakam has drawn renewed attention to Doyel's past controversy involving WNBA star Caitlin Clark. In April 2024, during Clark's introductory press conference with the Indiana Fever, Doyel greeted her by making a heart-hand gesture, a symbol Clark often used to acknowledge her family. When Clark responded, "You like that?", Doyel replied, "I like that you're here. Start doing it to me, and we'll get along just fine."

This interaction was widely condemned as inappropriate and "creepy". The Indianapolis Star suspended Doyel for two weeks and initially barred him from covering Fever games in person. Doyel also issued an apology, acknowledging his behavior was "oafish," "clumsy," and "awkward." He expressed remorse to Clark, stating, "Caitlin Clark, I'm so sorry. Today I was part of the problem," and promised to "do better." Doyel's last byline before the suspension was on April 29, 2024, in a piece about the Colts.

Despite the initial ban, Doyel eventually returned to covering the Indiana Fever, a move that sparked further outrage among fans. Some argued that he should have faced a permanent ban, expressing discomfort with his presence around the team, particularly Clark.

The exchange with Siakam has further solidified Doyel's reputation as a controversial figure in sports journalism. While some defend his right to ask tough questions, others view his conduct as unprofessional and disrespectful, particularly towards female athletes.