Tyrese Haliburton’s unique approach to basketball continues to capture attention this postseason. The Indiana Pacers’ star player does not adhere to traditional shooting mechanics; instead, his eccentric style involves a cupped right hand, an akimbo elbow, and unconventional footwork that includes random jabs, skips, and hops into his shots. Despite his seemingly awkward movements, Haliburton has emerged as a formidable force on the court, perplexing defenders and often leading his team with unexpected clutch performances.
Haliburton’s role in the Pacers’ high-octane offense is distinct. While he frequently handles the ball, ranking second in the league for touches, he does not dominate offensively in terms of scoring, showcasing his preference for distributing the ball and orchestrating the team’s transitions. His usage rate, while lower than some of his contemporaries, demonstrates his ability to elevate his teammates rather than just focus on individual achievements.
Born in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Haliburton played college basketball at Iowa State, where he initially struggled to find his scoring role. Drafted 12th overall by the Sacramento Kings in 2020, he was traded to the Pacers in 2022. Despite facing criticisms about his style and ability—once being voted the NBA’s most overrated player by peers—Haliburton has proven his worth, particularly during pivotal moments in the playoffs.
His recent playoff performances have been nothing short of historic. In crunch time, he has tied or taken the lead in crucial games, overcoming significant deficits to secure victories for his team. For instance, after a challenging start in the N.B.A. Finals, he made a game-winning shot in the opener and then bounced back with an impressive performance in Game Three, narrowly missing a triple-double.
The narrative surrounding Haliburton extends beyond basketball. While labeled “corny” for his demeanor and fashion choices—evidenced by his floral draft suit and Prada loafers—he remains unfazed by external criticism. He admits to being motivated by the trash talk from opponents and media alike, turning negative sentiments into fuel for his game.
As the Pacers continue their playoff run, they stand out due to their relentless play style, often outpacing and exhausting their opponents. Their journey is marked by resilience; although they struggled early in the season, they have steadily improved and adapted. This dynamism is characteristic of Haliburton himself—while his style might not fall within the conventional standards of “cool,” his performances reveal an undeniable skill and capacity for excitement as the stakes rise.
Haliburton and the Pacers embody a refreshing risk-taking mentality, reminding fans that the essence of the game lies not solely in being “better” than opponents but in outscoring them when it matters most. His spirited play has made him a thrilling figure to watch, sparking intrigue and anticipation for what he will do next.