Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton has spoken publicly for the first time since undergoing surgery for a torn right Achilles tendon, vowing to return stronger while paying tribute to one of the league’s most iconic figures.
Haliburton suffered the devastating injury in the first quarter of Game 7 of the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
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In a statement shared on social media, Haliburton addressed the emotional toll of the injury and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support. He also drew strength from a quote by the late Kobe Bryant, who famously continued to compete after tearing his Achilles in 2013.
“I think Kobe said it best when in this same situation,” Haliburton revealed.
He continued: “There are far greater issues/challenges in the world than a torn Achilles. Stop feeling sorry for yourself, find the silver lining and get to work with the same belief, same drive and same conviction as ever. And that’s exactly right. I will do everything in my power to get back right.”
Man. Don’t know how to explain it other than shock. Words cannot express the pain of this letdown. The frustration is unfathomable. I’ve worked my whole life to get to this moment and this is how it ends? Makes no sense.
— Tyrese Haliburton (@TyHaliburton22) June 24, 2025
Now that I’ve gotten surgery, I wish I could count the…
The injury is expected to sideline Haliburton for the entire 2025–26 season — a significant blow for both the Pacers and the league. The two-time All-Star was in the midst of a breakout postseason, helping Indiana reach the NBA Finals for the first time since 2000.
[ALSO READ: Indiana Pacers confirm Tyrese Haliburton to undergo surgery on torn right Achilles]
“Indy, I’m sorry. If any fan base doesn’t deserve this, it’s y’all,” Haliburton continued. “But together we are going to fight like hell to get back to this very spot and get over this hurdle. I don’t doubt for a second that y’all have my back, and I hope you guys know that I have yours.”
Haliburton averaged 20.7 points and a league-best 10.9 assists per game in the regular season and played through a strained right calf earlier in the Finals.
No official timetable has been set for his return, but he made it clear he plans to tackle his rehab the same way he plays — all in.
“My journey to get to where I am today wasn’t by happenstance,” he said. “I’ve pushed myself every day to be great. And I will continue to do just that.”
