Pacers' Tyrese Haliburton's Devastating Injury Ends NBA Finals Dream

OKLAHOMA CITY — Tyrese Haliburton stood outside the locker room, a walking boot securing his right leg and crutches as his support, greeting teammates amidst hugs and tears. This was not how the Indiana Pacers' star envisioned their season finale.

In a heart-wrenching Game 7 of the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Haliburton fell to the floor, agony written across his face as he punched the court in frustration. His exit marked the beginning of the end for the Pacers, who watched their grip on victory slip as the Thunder capitalized with a 103-91 win.

John Haliburton, Tyrese's father, revealed to ABC that the injury was likely an Achilles tendon tear, as initially suspected by viewers. Though an MRI will confirm, seasoned doctors often rely on several non-imaging tests to diagnose such serious injuries.

The injury, occurring late in the first quarter, left Haliburton unable to put weight on his leg. His face was masked with towels as he was assisted to the locker room, surrounded by Indiana’s entire playing, coaching, and medical staff. Even Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander paused to offer a moment of comfort.

“It's a heartbreak, man,” Pacers center Myles Turner lamented during an in-game interview, acknowledging the emotional and competitive blow.

Despite their efforts, the Thunder, riding high from a dominant 68-14 season, reaffirmed their superiority, particularly in the decisive second half.

Haliburton had labored under the strain of his leg injuries throughout the series, utilizing every available treatment from hyperbaric chambers to acupuncture, ensuring his participation in the Finals. His determination was on full display as he drained three early three-pointers in Game 7, before misfortune struck.

Surrounded by family in the locker room, Tyrese was reportedly in good spirits considering the circumstances, according to his father via sideline correspondent Lisa Salters.

The NBA playoffs have been marred by injuries, with key players like Boston's Jayson Tatum and Milwaukee's Damian Lillard facing similar fates, altering the dynamics of the title race. For Haliburton and others, these injuries cast long shadows over their future seasons.