Breaking: Indiana Pacers Star Tyrese Haliburton Suffers Devastating Torn Right Achilles Tendon In Game 7 Versus Thunder

The Indiana Pacers’ promising playoff run has taken a heartbreaking turn. Star guard Tyrese Haliburton, the engine behind Indiana’s resurgent season, sustained a torn right Achilles tendon during Game 7 of their thrilling series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, according to reports from The Athletic’s Shams Charania.

The news comes as a crushing blow not only to the Pacers but to the NBA community as a whole. Haliburton, widely regarded as one of the league’s brightest young stars and playmakers, went down with a non-contact injury early in the third quarter of Sunday night’s win-or-go-home matchup at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

The moment was eerily silent. With just over nine minutes left in the third, Haliburton drove to his left, planted his right foot, and immediately crumbled to the hardwood in visible pain. He clutched his right ankle area, signaling for the trainers as teammates and fans looked on in stunned silence. While Haliburton was helped off the court, unable to bear weight on his right leg, early indications hinted at a serious injury—and now, confirmation has arrived.

A torn Achilles tendon is among the most feared injuries in professional sports, particularly for basketball players who rely on explosive movement, agility, and footwork. The expected recovery timeline typically ranges from 9 to 12 months, meaning Haliburton is almost certainly sidelined for the entirety of the 2025-26 NBA season.

For the Pacers, the injury casts a dark cloud over what had been a remarkable year filled with hope, growth, and playoff success. Indiana finished the regular season with a 51-31 record, marking their highest win total since the 2013-14 season and securing the third seed in the Eastern Conference.

At the heart of that success was Haliburton, whose leadership, court vision, and scoring ability elevated the Pacers to contender status. The 24-year-old guard posted career-best numbers, averaging 20.9 points, 10.8 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game while shooting nearly 40% from beyond the arc. His playmaking not only fueled Indiana’s up-tempo offense but also solidified him as one of the NBA’s elite guards.

The All-Star selection was Haliburton’s second straight, and his performance in these playoffs was cementing his reputation as a clutch performer. Through the first six games against the Thunder, Haliburton averaged 21.6 points, 9.7 assists, and 4.4 rebounds, consistently delivering in big moments as the Pacers pushed one of the league’s most talented young teams to the brink.

Unfortunately, the injury occurred before Haliburton could finish what he started. The Pacers ultimately fell short in Game 7, losing to Oklahoma City 113-105 in a hard-fought battle. With Haliburton sidelined for nearly the entire second half, Indiana struggled to maintain offensive rhythm and defensive cohesion.

Head coach Rick Carlisle addressed the media after the game, visibly emotional while discussing Haliburton’s injury.

“It’s devastating,” Carlisle said. “Tyrese is the heartbeat of this team. His work ethic, his leadership, his love for the game—it’s all infectious. We’re gutted for him, but knowing Tyrese, he’ll attack this rehab the same way he approaches everything—with determination and a smile.”

The loss of Haliburton presents immediate challenges for Indiana’s front office. With their franchise cornerstone sidelined long-term, decisions regarding roster construction, free agency, and the upcoming NBA Draft will take on new urgency.

Haliburton signed a five-year, $245 million extension with the Pacers in July 2023, cementing him as the face of the franchise. While his long-term future remains bright, Achilles injuries are notoriously difficult to return from at full strength. History offers mixed examples, with players like Kevin Durant returning to elite form, while others struggled to regain previous explosiveness.

Pacers President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard expressed optimism during a brief statement Monday morning.

“We’re devastated for Tyrese, but we believe in his resilience,” Pritchard said. “Our medical staff, trainers, and entire organization will support him every step of the way. We’ve built a culture of perseverance here, and we’ll navigate this together.”

Across the league, reactions poured in from players, coaches, and analysts expressing support for Haliburton. Fellow stars such as Luka Dončić, Jayson Tatum, and Ja Morant shared messages on social media, wishing him strength during recovery.

“Praying for my brother Tyrese,” Dončić posted. “One of the best young leaders in the game. He’ll be back stronger.”

The timing of the injury is particularly disheartening given the Pacers’ trajectory. Indiana entered the 2025 playoffs as a dark-horse contender in a wide-open Eastern Conference, with Haliburton’s growth, along with key contributions from Bennedict Mathurin, Myles Turner, and Pascal Siakam, positioning them as a legitimate threat.

For Haliburton personally, the setback halts what had been an ascendant career arc. Drafted 12th overall by the Sacramento Kings in 2020, Haliburton quickly emerged as a cerebral, pass-first point guard with elite court awareness. His trade to Indiana in 2022 was initially met with skepticism but has since been hailed as transformative for both player and franchise.

Within three seasons, Haliburton has not only blossomed into an All-Star but also established himself as one of the most marketable young faces in the NBA. His blend of skill, humility, and charisma made him a fan favorite, while his unselfish play and high basketball IQ earned him the respect of peers and veterans alike.

Former NBA champion and analyst Richard Jefferson reflected on Haliburton’s journey during ESPN’s postgame coverage.

“This kid embodies everything right about basketball,” Jefferson said. “His leadership, his unselfishness, his love for the game—you can’t teach that. This injury is brutal, no sugarcoating it, but I believe he’ll come back even better.”

The Achilles tear represents yet another instance of cruel timing for a league that has seen several rising stars derailed by injuries in recent seasons. From Zion Williamson to Ja Morant and now Haliburton, the NBA has navigated the bittersweet reality of young superstars battling physical setbacks during their prime years.

For the Pacers, their offseason will now revolve around contingency planning. Backup point guards Andrew Nembhard and T.J. McConnell provided valuable minutes during the season, but neither replicates Haliburton’s playmaking brilliance. Indiana may explore trade options, free-agent signings, or reshuffling their rotation to stay competitive.

Additionally, the timing of the NBA Draft becomes crucial. With the Pacers holding the 18th overall pick, speculation will undoubtedly swirl regarding their intentions—whether to draft a guard for immediate impact or seek veteran help via trades.

For Haliburton, the focus shifts to recovery. Achilles tendon surgeries have evolved significantly, with modern rehabilitation protocols improving outcomes for elite athletes. Yet, the journey is arduous, requiring patience, mental toughness, and unwavering commitment.

Haliburton, known for his relentless positivity, addressed fans through an Instagram post Monday afternoon.

“I appreciate all the love and prayers,” Haliburton wrote. “This isn’t the end—it’s just another chapter. I’ll be back, and I’ll be better. Love y’all, Pacers Nation.”

As the NBA world rallies around Tyrese Haliburton, the Indiana Pacers face an offseason filled with uncertainty. But one thing remains clear—their star guard’s resolve and character will define his road to recovery, and when he returns, the basketball world will be watching.