JUST IN: Heartbreak in Indiana — Pacers Star Tyrese Haliburton to Miss Two Full Seasons Following Achilles Surgery
In a crushing blow to the Indiana Pacers and basketball fans across the league, Head Coach Rick Carlisle has announced that All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton will miss the next two full NBA seasons due to a devastating injury. Haliburton is set to undergo surgery to repair a torn Achilles tendon in his right leg, effectively sidelining him until the 2027 season.
The announcement came during a somber press conference held Monday morning at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse, where an emotional Carlisle delivered the heartbreaking update.
“This is incredibly difficult for all of us,” Carlisle said. “Tyrese has been the heart and soul of our team. Losing him for two seasons is a tremendous blow—not just from a basketball standpoint, but personally. He’s such a special young man.”
Haliburton reportedly suffered the injury during an offseason training session last week in Los Angeles. Initial tests suggested a strain, but further evaluation and imaging confirmed a full tear of the right Achilles tendon—a severe and rare injury, particularly for guards whose games rely heavily on agility, burst, and lateral quickness.
The 25-year-old guard has been a transformative figure since arriving in Indiana via trade from the Sacramento Kings in 2022. In the 2024-2025 NBA season, Haliburton averaged 21.8 points, 10.5 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game, leading the Pacers to a strong playoff push and earning his second All-Star selection.
The Pacers front office released a statement shortly after Carlisle’s announcement, expressing their unwavering support for Haliburton and their commitment to his long-term recovery.
“Tyrese is an exceptional talent and an even better human being. His leadership, work ethic, and commitment to this franchise are second to none. While this setback is significant, we believe in his strength and resilience and will stand by him every step of the way.”
News of the injury sent shockwaves across the league, with teammates, former players, and fellow stars taking to social media to express their support. Pacers forward Bennedict Mathurin tweeted, “My brother. We’ve got your back 100%. Come back stronger.”
For the Pacers, Haliburton’s absence creates a massive void in both talent and leadership. Known for his high basketball IQ and elite playmaking, his ability to orchestrate the offense and elevate those around him has been critical to Indiana’s recent resurgence.
Now, the organization faces the tough task of recalibrating without its franchise cornerstone. While backup guards Andrew Nembhard and T.J. McConnell are expected to see increased roles, sources indicate the Pacers could explore trades or free agency to bolster their backcourt depth.
Despite the grim timeline, Carlisle remains hopeful.
“If there’s anyone who can come back from something like this stronger than ever, it’s Tyrese. He’s a fighter. He’s not just going to recover—he’s going to inspire.”
Haliburton’s surgery is scheduled for later this week in New York City. Rehabilitation is expected to be extensive, with a projected return to basketball activities by late 2026.
For now, the Indiana Pacers and the basketball world will have to wait—and hope—for the return of one of the game’s brightest young stars.
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