Tyrese Haliburton had the Oklahoma City Thunder against the ropes with a Game 7 in the 2025 NBA Finals, then suffered a torn Achilles and watched his Indiana Pacers fall short from the locker room. It was one of the most devastating moments in NBA history, and after 486 days, Haliburton is back to write his comeback story.
The two-time All-Star tallied 23 points and 12 assists in a 123-120 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Opening Night. Haliburton outdueled Dejounte Murray, who powered New Orleans with 23 points, seven assists and lockdown defense. Both Haliburton and Murray have made it back to the court after Achilles surgery, with Murray serving as a mentor to Haliburton during his recovery.
It was an emotional night for Haliburton, and
it all hit him during his on-court postgame interview. It's the most heartwarming video you'll see today.
Tyrese Haliburton broke down during his postgame interview with Jeremiah Johnson 🥹
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) October 22, 2026
So good to have you back, 0 💙 pic.twitter.com/w0py2seq2C
The Pacers were considered a fringe playoff team to begin the season, but Haliburton's immediate reemergence could indicate their upside is much higher.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Tyrese Haliburton sheds tears of joy after impressive return from injury
