To the Indiana Pacers, my teammates, our amazing fans, and the entire Hoosier State,
As I look on everything we’ve accomplished together — the highs, the progress, and the common mission — I feel the most profound sense of thankfulness I’ve ever experienced. From the time I landed in Indiana, I knew it was different. What I didn’t anticipate at the time was how transformative this chapter would be for me, not only professionally, but personally.
When I arrived at Indiana, I was still figuring out who I wanted to be in the league. Yes, I was confident – I believed in my vision of the game and my ability to influence it. However, having that belief internally is one thing; being around by individuals who fuel your fire is quite another. You all did this for me. It changed everything.
Thank you for putting your trust in me, Pacers organization — ownership, front office, and coaching staff. For believing in my leadership, my playing style, and my determination to win the right way. You handed me the keys, and I did not take them lightly. You offered me room to grow, space to lead, and a say in establishing this team’s culture. What type of belief is that? It means more than I can express.
Thank you, Coach Rick Carlisle and the entire staff, for challenging and believing in me in equal measure. You’ve helped me improve not only my game but also my approach to life off the court. You’ve taught me how to lead a group of guys toward a single goal while maintaining modesty, poise, and confidence.
To my teammates: gosh, what a group we have. Thank you for riding with me, challenging me, and, above all, trusting me. There’s something wonderful about how we’ve come together, built from the ground up, and accepted the grind. That’s unusual. And that is why I believe we are only getting started.
Now we come to the fans, who are at the core of this entire trip.
Indiana, you all accepted me as one of your own. Whether it was the roars inside Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the kids wearing my jersey in the stands, or the strangers who stopped me to say, “We’re proud of you,” every experience fueled my purpose. Basketball is everywhere in this state. It’s in your DNA. And to know that I’m a small part of that legacy is an honor that humbles me every day.
You’ve helped me grow not only as a player, but as a man. You’ve demonstrated that loyalty is rewarded via constancy, heart, and showing up – even when the spotlight is dimmed. You’ve been there for me through every step of this journey, and I vow I’ll never take it for granted.
This letter is more than just a thank you; it is a vow.
I promise to continue fighting for this city, this squad, and the dream we all share. I promise to be the best version of myself every time I step onto the court. And I promise that no matter what happens next, Indiana—this home, this fan base, this family—will always be a part of my foundation.
We’ve still got work to do. We have not yet accomplished our goals. We still dream of raising banners. And I wouldn’t want to pursue that with anyone other than all of you.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude.
With love and purpose.
Tyrese Haliburton
#0 – Indiana Pacers 🏀
June 7, 2025.