Oklahoma City, June 22, 2025 – NBA fans were shocked when Tyrese Haliburton, the Indiana Pacers’ star player, got badly hurt in the first quarter of Game 7. He started the game strong with three 3-point shots in just five minutes. But then, everything changed. He hurt his lower right leg while trying to score. In this article, we look at what happened, how it affects the Pacers, and what this means for Haliburton’s future.
What Happened In Game 7
Haliburton had a great start. He made three 3-pointers early in the game and scored 9 points quickly. But with 4:55 left in the first quarter, he slipped while driving to the basket. He held the back of his lower right leg and fell down in pain. The medical team and teammates rushed to help him. He couldn’t walk and had to be helped off the court, covering his face with a towel. His father, John Haliburton, later said he had torn his Achilles tendon. Replays showed the same.
Injury’s NBA-Wide Shock and Reactions
This injury made everyone emotional. Myles Turner, his teammate, said it was “heartbreak” during the game. Many famous players like LeBron James, Draymond Green, and Donovan Mitchell shared their support online. Some said it reminded them of Kevin Durant’s injury in the 2019 Finals.
Pattern of Playoff Injuries
Haliburton is now the third big-name player with a torn Achilles this postseason. Jayson Tatum from the Celtics and Damian Lillard from the Bucks also had the same injury. Fans and experts are now talking about how long the NBA season is and if players are being pushed too hard.
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Career And Franchise Context
Haliburton was picked 12th in the 2020 draft. He joined the Pacers in 2022. He quickly became the team’s star player. He helped Indiana reach the NBA Finals for the first time in 25 years. Before Game 7, he was averaging 14.8 points, 6.8 assists, and 5.3 rebounds. Even though he had a sore calf in Game 5, he still played in Games 6 and 7. Some say this reminds them of what Kevin Durant did before his own injury.
Implications And Prognosis
When Haliburton left the game, the Pacers’ offense became weaker. Their energy also dropped. By halftime, they were losing 48–47.
Season‑long Consequences
A torn Achilles usually takes 9 to 12 months to heal. This means Haliburton might miss most of next season (2025–26). The Pacers now have to plan the offseason without their top player. They might look for new players to help fill the gap.
Conclusion
Haliburton’s injury is a big deal. It changed Game 7 and will affect the Pacers for a long time. It also raises questions about how much players are asked to play during the season. This article gives you all the simple and clear information on this major news story.