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WESTFIELD, Ind. (AP) — Tyrese Haliburton, a standout for the Indiana Pacers, made his return to the basketball court on Saturday, marking a significant step in his recovery journey.
While he wasn’t engaging in any running or shooting drills — as it is still early in his rehabilitation from Achilles tendon surgery — being present at the Pacers Athletic Center in suburban Indianapolis was a positive sign. Surrounded by over 300 enthusiastic young basketball campers, Haliburton’s signature smile was on full display.
“I’m navigating in my boot and gradually transitioning to walking in my shoe full time, which is an exciting development,” he explained. “Every couple of weeks brings new benchmarks and small victories. Some days are better than others; it feels like a repeating cycle, but my goal is to recover fully.”
Saturday turned out to be a productive day for Haliburton. He was able to pose for photos, participate in interviews, and walk around the facility, albeit with the help of a protective boot.
All of this progress contrasts sharply with events from late June when this camp was originally planned. That was the moment Haliburton’s strained right calf faltered during the first quarter of Game 7 in the NBA Finals. He collapsed on the court, leaving teammates, coaches, and fans shocked.
With assistance, he exited the court and watched the remainder of the game from the locker room alongside his father, John. The Pacers ultimately fell short that night, and Haliburton left on crutches, aware that surgery was likely, which would sideline him for the entire upcoming season.
On a brighter note, Haliburton is taking a cautious approach to his rehabilitation. He’s also been working alongside Indiana’s other high-profile injured athlete, WNBA All-Star Caitlin Clark, who hasn’t played since July 15 due to a right groin injury, her third muscle strain of the season.
“It’s unfortunate that she’s been sidelined for so long, but being able to support each other during recovery has been beneficial. We train together, so it often feels like just the two of us in the weight room,” he said. “I would prefer she were actively playing, but having each other to rely on right now helps.”
Haliburton has been keeping tabs on the recoveries of Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard and Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum, who also faced Achilles tendon injuries in the playoffs and could miss the entire coming season. Tatum recently described the initial six weeks after his injury as “potentially the most challenging of my life.”
At least three Pacers players — Haliburton, Isaiah Jackson, and James Wiseman — can relate. Both Jackson and Wiseman experienced Achilles tendon injuries earlier last season and aim to be ready for Indiana’s season opener on October 23 against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. They have been offering support and guidance to Haliburton.
“We’ve kind of formed our own little ‘Achilles group’ in the locker room,” said Haliburton. “That connection means a lot to me, especially since you can get worn out talking to trainers. They’re doing their best, but sometimes it helps to vent to your teammates.”
The multitude of supportive letters he has received from well-wishers across Indiana, his home state of Wisconsin, his collegiate base in Iowa, and beyond has also been uplifting.
Additionally, interacting with both familiar and new teammates has brightened his spirits. Forward James Johnson came into town to assist with the camp, while rookie guards Taelon Peter and Kam Jones were present, along with Haliburton’s enthusiastic father, who engaged with everyone around.
However, the most therapeutic experience for Haliburton seemed to be interacting with all the cheerful children donning Tyrese Haliburton camp T-shirts.
“A lot of these kids come up to me saying, ‘I was at that playoff game,’ and it really warms my heart,” Haliburton remarked, his smile radiating. “I imagine they think of me as a mythical figure. I remember feeling that way when I was their age. So, being here, connecting with them, and spending quality time together is something I truly cherish.”
