Indiana Pacers fans were dealt a heavy blow this week as reports confirm that star point guard Tyrese Haliburton is set to undergo Achilles surgery on Monday. The injury, believed to be a torn Achilles tendon, occurred during the dramatic Game 7 showdown against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Playoffs.
The 24-year-old Haliburton, who had been a driving force behind the Pacers’ playoff surge, appeared to tweak his leg late in the fourth quarter of the game. He was visibly limping off the court and did not return for the remainder of the match. Initial assessments raised concerns, but it was only after further scans and evaluations that the full extent of the injury was revealed.
Achilles tendon tears are among the most serious injuries for basketball players, often requiring long recovery times ranging from 6 to 12 months. The Pacers' medical staff has reportedly recommended surgery as the best course of action, which Haliburton will undergo at a specialized sports medicine facility.
This injury could have major implications for both Haliburton’s career trajectory and the Pacers’ upcoming season. He averaged 20.1 points, 10.7 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game this season, emerging as the team’s leader on and off the court. His absence could leave a significant void in Indiana’s backcourt, forcing the team to rethink its off-season strategy.
While the Pacers pushed the Thunder to the brink in a thrilling series, Haliburton’s absence in the final minutes of Game 7 was deeply felt. Fans and teammates alike have taken to social media to offer their support, with many expressing hope for a strong and speedy recovery.
Head coach Rick Carlisle addressed the media earlier today, stating, “Tyrese is a fighter. This setback will only make him stronger. We’ll support him every step of the way.”
As Haliburton prepares for surgery, the basketball world watches with bated breath. Injuries like these are sobering reminders of the physical toll of elite-level competition — and the resilience required to come back even stronger.