In a devastating blow to the Indiana Pacers and the basketball world, star guard Tyrese Haliburton has been diagnosed with a torn right Achilles tendon, the team announced Tuesday. The injury occurred during the second quarter of last night’s game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Haliburton went down with a non-contact injury after driving to the rim and immediately reached for his lower leg. He had to be helped off the court and did not return. An MRI taken earlier today confirmed the worst: a torn Achilles tendon. Surgery is scheduled for later today.
This is a crushing development for the 24-year-old, who has been enjoying a breakout season and leading a young Pacers squad toward a potential playoff run. Haliburton was averaging 21.7 points, 11.2 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game while shooting efficiently from the field. He was also widely expected to be an All-Star selection for the second consecutive year.
“This is heartbreaking,” Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle said during Tuesday’s press conference. “Tyrese is not only the leader of our team, he’s the heart of our culture. We know he’ll attack rehab with the same intensity and dedication that he brings to the game every night.”
The recovery timeline for a torn Achilles typically ranges from 9 to 12 months, meaning Haliburton will likely miss the remainder of the current season and potentially the start of the next one. The Pacers, currently sitting in the middle of the Eastern Conference standings, will now be forced to recalibrate without their primary playmaker.
Haliburton’s injury also impacts Team USA, where he was a strong candidate for Olympic selection this summer. His absence leaves a major gap at the point guard position and raises questions about the team’s depth heading into Paris.
Across the league, players and coaches reacted swiftly to the news, offering their support. Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who was on the court during the play, tweeted: “Prayers up for Tyrese. Hate to see this. One of the best dudes in the league.”
In a brief statement before surgery, Haliburton remained optimistic: “This is part of the journey. I’ve faced challenges before, and I’ll face this one head on. I appreciate all the love and support—I’ll be back stronger.”
While the road ahead is uncertain, there’s no question that the league will miss Haliburton’s electric presence. For now, the Pacers and their fans will be hoping for a smooth surgery and a full recovery for one of the NBA’s brightest young stars.