Tyrese Haliburton hit the court Wednesday night for the Indiana Pacers, logging 16 minutes in a 123-112 preseason win over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Ames, Iowa. It was a moment he called an “emotional return,” and honestly, after what he’s been through, who can blame him?
The Long Road Back
You gotta understand the journey Haliburton’s been on. The dude missed the *entire* 2025-26 season. Think about that, a whole year gone. Why? He tore his Achilles during Game 7 of the 2024-25 NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Game 7! That’s already gut-wrenching, right? But it wasn’t just the physical rehab for the torn Achilles that put him through the wringer. He also battled a nasty case of face shingles that needed a ton of medication and even led to weight gain. Talk about a nightmare scenario for a pro athlete.
Back on the Hardwood
So when Haliburton, at 26 years old, finally stepped back on that court, it was more than just a preseason game. It was a massive personal victory. He put up 7 points, dished out 6 assists, snagged 2 blocks, and grabbed a steal. Solid numbers for just 16 minutes of action, especially after being out for so long. And playing in Ames, Iowa, where he used to play his college ball for Iowa State? You know that felt good, almost like a homecoming. He said it was emotional, and anyone watching could see why. Getting back to “hooping again” must feel like pure freedom after what he endured.
This is just preseason, sure, but for Haliburton, it’s a monumental step. After everything, seeing him back out there, contributing, and looking like himself, is huge. The Pacers are getting their star back, and if Wednesday night was any indication, he’s ready to put those “16 months from hell” firmly in the rearview mirror. What an incredible comeback story already unfolding before our eyes.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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