Speaking on “The Zach Lowe Show,” Haliburton admitted that while he was caught up in the excitement of the tournament, he now regrets the gesture. He noted that Lillard had been a mentor figure early in his career, particularly following his 2022 trade from the Sacramento Kings to Indiana. Haliburton acknowledged that his actions were “a little much” and that he hopes to move past the incident to restore a cordial relationship with the veteran guard.
Reflecting on the Rivalry and Future Prospects
The 2023 tournament proved to be a significant turning point for the Pacers, serving as a catalyst for their eventual run to the 2025 NBA Finals. However, the personal cost of that success was a damaged rapport with Lillard, a player Haliburton had looked up to for most of his life. Haliburton revealed that he had hoped to speak with Lillard in person recently, but a bout of shingles prevented him from traveling to Portland, where Lillard returned following his stint with the Bucks and subsequent waiver.
Both players are now focused on the 2026-27 season after missing the entirety of the previous campaign due to torn Achilles injuries sustained during the 2025 playoffs. With both stars back on the court for preseason action, the opportunity for a face-to-face conversation may arise soon. The Pacers are scheduled to host the
Beyond his personal reflections, Haliburton is currently navigating his own return to competitive play. He noted that his primary focus during the preseason is adjusting to the pace of the game, emphasizing the need to slow down as he reintegrates into the team’s rotation. As he looks toward the upcoming season, the Pacers star is clearly aiming to resolve lingering off-court tensions while regaining his rhythm on the hardwood.
