Tyrese Haliburton is already a certified Indiana Pacers legend after their epic run to the 2025 NBA Finals. The superstar point guard had one of the most incredible playoff runs of all time, including many clutch game-winners. They ultimately fell short in a Game 7, but it’s safe to say the result might have been different if Hali hadn’t gotten injured.
The 25-year-old is a two-time All-Star and one of the league’s best passers. However, his scoring numbers haven’t always screamed superstar. Despite leading Indiana on such an incredible run, there are still those who doubt his greatness. And for those who question him, Pacers franchise GOAT Reggie Miller has something to say.
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A powerful moment from Netflix’s ‘Starting 5’ as Reggie Miller passes the baton to an emotional Tyrese Haliburton as the next great for the Pacers after his Finals run:
“He risked it all for a franchise, for a state, for an organization. … How many are willing to risk it all?” pic.twitter.com/4gsZ635CJR
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) October 14, 2025
“All I will say is, look at Game 6, look at Game 7 of the NBA Finals. There will never, ever be a question about a guy’s heart, will, determination,” Miller said. “No one will second-guess any decision that he ever makes again. He risked it all. He risked it all for a franchise, for a state, for an organization.
Former Indiana Pacers player Reggie Miller celebrates during the game between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
“This comes back to a full-circle moment, to what it’s like to be a Hoosier and to play in Indiana? ‘I’m not playing for myself. I’m playing for that dude. I’m playing for that dude. And I’m playing for these people.’ That’s what it’s like to be an Indiana Pacer. So thank you, Tyrese.”
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No one can dispute that Haliburton put his body on the line for his team. Playing on an injured calf is what led the point guard to suffer a gruesome Achilles injury that will see him miss the 2025-26 NBA season. It’s tough to say in hindsight whether it was the right call, but the move does show exactly how committed to the franchise Haliburton really is.
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