Tyrese Haliburton Gets Emotional Welcome as Pacers Star Makes Powerful Return After 472 Days
NBA star Tyrese Haliburton made an emotional return to the court in Iowa after missing the entire 2025-26 season due to an Achilles injury. The Pacers guard played a preseason game at his former college arena, Hilton Coliseum.
Why it matters
The return of a high-profile athlete after a long-term injury is a significant narrative in professional sports, highlighting recovery and personal connection to fanbases.
Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton is back in the NBA after missing the entire 2025-26 season for rehab. Haliburton took his time recovering from the torn right Achilles tendon he suffered in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. On Wednesday, set foot on the court in front of the Iowa crowd.
The Pacers faced the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Hilton Coliseum, the home arena of Iowa State University Cyclone men's and women's basketball teams. It was special for the Pacers star since he spent two years in college before the league. Before the contest, Haliburton gave an emotional message to the fans.
Dec 8, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) in the second half against the Sacramento Kings at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
"Cyclone!" Haliburton greeted the crowd .
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