Haliburton, who had been sidelined since tearing his right Achilles during Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, finished the night with seven points on 3-of-8 shooting. He also contributed six assists, one steal, and two blocks. Despite the productive stat line, the star playmaker admitted that he felt a sense of urgency on the court, noting that his adrenaline levels were high throughout the first half.
A homecoming marked by high energy and anticipation
The setting for Haliburton's return added a layer of personal significance, as the game took place at Iowa State, where he played collegiate basketball from 2018 to 2020. To celebrate the occasion, Haliburton purchased the student sections at both ends of the arena, allowing students to attend on a first-come, first-served basis. The gesture resulted in a massive turnout, with fans lining up outside the venue as early as 11 p.m. the previous night.
Reflecting on his performance, Haliburton compared his current state to that of a rookie, acknowledging that he needs to adjust to the pace of live competition. While he felt his physical movements were rushed, he expressed confidence in his ability to read the floor effectively. He emphasized that the only way to regain his rhythm is through consistent game repetitions against live opponents.
Managing the return to the court
The atmosphere inside the arena remained electric throughout the night, with the crowd actively cheering for the former Iowa State standout. During the fourth quarter, fans began chanting for Haliburton to re-enter the game. However, the guard remained on the bench, having already removed his basketball shoes in favor of sandals and socks, signaling that his night was complete.
When asked about the fans' persistent requests for him to return to the floor, Haliburton laughed off the suggestion, noting that the team is strictly adhering to a recovery process. Having been sidelined for more than 400 days, the focus remains on long-term health as he integrates back into the Pacers' rotation. The game, originally planned for the 2025 preseason but delayed due to his injury, served as a significant milestone in his return to the NBA.
