Star Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton went down with a right lower leg injury. This is what happened during the most telling Game 7 of the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder Sunday night. The injury, which occurred with 4:55 remaining in the first quarter, left Haliburton visibly emotional as he was helped off the court by team personnel.
Seth Haliburton on the Thursday, as he tried to drive into the key and suddenly — a non-contact injury — crumpled to the ground. In a fit of rage, he began punching the wood floor. The whole Indiana playing, coaching and medical staff immediately surrounded him on the court. Haliburton had been playing through a strained right calf, an injury he first aggravated in the Game 5 of the Finals. Even with this injury, he had been adamant about playing, saying, “If I can walk, I want to play.”
Even before the injury, Haliburton had taken over the game by then, putting up nine points—all on three-pointers. In fact, after he went down, he wouldn’t even put any weight on his injured leg. He left the court draped in a towel, which covered his face and head, symbolizing his feelings at that moment. After his collapse, team officials ushered him to Indiana Pacers’ locker room for additional examination.
Haliburton’s performance has been crucial throughout the Finals, and his absence could have significant implications for the Pacers’ chances of winning the championship. His determination to play through pain has been a testament to his commitment to the team and the pursuit of victory.
As the Pacers continue their deep run into the series, they will certainly be keeping a close eye on Haliburton’s status. The team must trust their medical staff to get a read on his condition and the length of recovery.
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