In Game 5 of the NBA Finals, Tyrese Haliburton’s performance was one for the record books, but not in a good way, as the Indiana Pacers suffered a heartbreaking loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. With the series now 3-2, the next game will mark the first time this postseason that the Pacers face elimination.
Haliburton, visibly battling an injury, struggled mightily throughout the contest, and his performance was a major factor in the outcome. His efforts, which many expected to energize the team, fell short, especially in the fourth quarter, which saw the Thunder go on a 7-0 run late to shut the door on Indiana.
Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) gestures during a game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0).
Brad Penner-Imagn Images
This physical strain, paired with his uncharacteristic performance, drew harsh criticism from NBA commentator Emmanuel Acho. On Tuesday, Acho criticized his decision to play through the injury:
“The most selfish thing I've seen Tyrese Haliburton do is try to play hurt... He tried to be a hero. And what you did last night was put the whole L on your back.”
Haliburton became the first player in NBA Finals history to record zero field goals, zero steals and zero blocks while committing at least three turnovers and at least three fouls in a game where he played over 30 minutes.
His inability to contribute offensively — scoring only four points, all from free throws — highlighted a night that deviated sharply from his usual efficiency and playmaking prowess.
Haliburton was seen limping as he left the press conference, an indicator of the toll the game had taken on him.