The NBA has lifted the ban on Indiana Pacers star guard Tyrese Haliburton's dad attending games. Haliburton's father, John, will attend the Pacers' next game against the New York Knicks.
ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania reported the news on social media.
"Pops freed: Tyrese Haliburton's father, John, will be allowed to attend Pacers home games in a suite beginning with Tuesday's pivotal Game 4 against the Knicks, sources tell ESPN. John Haliburton missed eight games following a confrontation with Giannis Antetokounmpo on April 29."
Haliburton's dad has missed eight games following an incident with Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. After the Pacers eliminated Milwaukee from the postseason, Haliburton's dad got into the face of the Bucks star.
Read more:Tyrese Haliburton's Dad Banned From All Pacers Games for 'Foreseeable Future'
The two had to be separate, and he has missed games since.
This has been one of the bigger storylines following the Pacers' playoff run due to the hype around the team. But it seems that the Pacers believe he has served his time and will now be able to see his son play in person again.
Indiana will have him in a suite, likely to avoid any issues coming up. But this is massive news, and the Pacers should be fired up to have him return.
NBA legend Charles Barkley called for the league to allow Haliburton's dad back days ago. And now it seems that Barkley is getting his wish.
"It's time to let Mr. Haliburton back in the building," said Barkley. "Adam, I'm asking you... Hey, my man paid his dues. He did something really, really stupid. But he's been punished. I'm asking you and the Indiana Pacers to let Mr. Haliburton back in the building for Games 3 and 4. Listen, he paid his dues. It shouldn't be indefinite. He's been punished enough, he will never do anything that stupid again."
The Pacers currently lead the Eastern Conference Finals 2-1, and they will be coming off a 20-point collapse in Game 3. Indiana let their foot off the gas down the stretch, and New York was able to do just enough to squeak out the victory.
Game 4 should be even better, and these two teams match up extremely well against each other. With Haliburton's dad in attendance, the Pacers will likely be ready to show what they can do.
More NBA news:
Pacers Legend Reveals Major Criticism for Tyrese Haliburton After Game 3 Loss
Knicks' Jalen Brunson Shares Strong 5-Word Reaction After Game 3 Win
For more Indiana Pacers and general NBA news, head on over to Newsweek Sports.
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This story was originally published May 26, 2025 at 11:47 AM.