Tyrese Haliburton Injured: Pacers Star’s Shocking Departure in NBA Finals Game 7

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — This is not how Tyrese Haliburton imagined his season ending. As he stood outside the locker room in a walking boot and on crutches, he greeted his teammates with hugs and support. Their farewell was emotional, a scene filled with tears and heartbreak.

In Game 7 of the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Haliburton suffered a right leg injury that changed everything for the Indiana Pacers. With a one-point lead at halftime, hopes were high. But when Haliburton fell on the court, frustration took over. He needed help to the locker room, leaving the team without their star player. The Thunder ultimately won, 103-91, with the Pacers managing just 43 points in the second half.

Teammate TJ McConnell noted Haliburton’s character: “Doesn’t surprise me at all. He’s all about the team. He wasn’t in the locker room feeling sorry for himself; he was there for us.” Such leadership moments highlight why Haliburton is highly regarded among players. He embodies teamwork and resilience.

Initially, Tyrese’s father suggested it might be an Achilles injury, but further tests will confirm the details. The injury seemed severe; Haliburton didn’t put any weight on his leg after the incident, and replays appeared concerning. His pain was palpable, drawing sympathy even from opponents, including Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who offered a kind touch as Haliburton lay on the floor.

Pacers coach Rick Carlisle expressed hope for Haliburton’s recovery: “All our hearts dropped, but he will be back.” Nevertheless, the team struggled to regroup without him. Despite Haliburton’s earlier efforts and treatments to play through pain—including hyperbaric chamber therapy and electronic stimulation—the injury proved too much in this critical moment.

Injuries have been a defining issue this playoff season. For instance, Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics and Damian Lillard from the Milwaukee Bucks also faced serious setbacks, which impacted their teams. Social media reactions, including a raw expletive tweet from LeBron James regarding Haliburton’s injury, showed how deeply this matter has resonated across the league.

Haliburton, a member of the Olympic gold medal-winning team, showed grit throughout the challenges he faced this season. Teammates and fans alike are proud of his performance and character. As forward Pascal Siakam put it, “It just hurts that he couldn’t see it through, but there’s more to come.”

Injuries aren’t just physical; they can affect team dynamics and morale. As the NBA moves forward, it serves as a reminder of the toughness required, both mentally and physically, in professional sports.

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