Tyrese Haliburton made his return to the Indiana Pacers’ FanJam scrimmage after more than a year away from game action, describing the experience as both exciting and encouraging as he continues his comeback from an Achilles injury.
“It felt good. Felt good. Still defeated. I’ve never won a Fan Jam game,” Haliburton joked after the scrimmage. “But this the first time I’ve left Fan Jam and felt my body’s felt good, so I’ll take it.”
Haliburton’s last game came in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, when he suffered the Achilles rupture. His return to the court at Gainbridge Fieldhouse generated a strong reaction from the Pacers crowd.
“Yeah, it’s fun. It’s fun. I’m so glad to be back,” Haliburton said. “I know a lot of people are excited for me to be back and I think there’s a lot of excitement throughout the whole city for our team and our group. So, just happy to be a part of that and look forward to a good year.”
The Pacers’ Blue Team, made up largely of reserve players, defeated the White Team during the scrimmage. Haliburton praised the second unit’s size and defensive versatility but suggested the group still has something to prove in full-court competition.
“I feel like we have good size in our second group. They can guard multiple positions,” he said. “They cause a different threat on the other side because they’re so big.”
Haliburton added that the reserves “have had some really good days at camp,” particularly in drills and shorter games.
“But when we play five on five full court, ask them how that goes,” he said with a smile. “But they’ve been doing good in drill work and little mini games.”
Haliburton also discussed playing alongside Ivica Zubac, who joined Indiana in the February trade that sent Bennedict Mathurin to the LA Clippers. Zubac had 12 points and six rebounds in the FanJam scrimmage.
“Obviously he’s such a big guy. Poses a lot of different threats offensively and defensively,” Haliburton said. “Rebounding the basketball, outlets, all those things.”
The point guard said the connection between the two is still developing.
“So, we’re just starting our connection, but I’m really enjoying playing alongside him for the first week or whatever,” Haliburton said. “And I think I’m just looking forward to playing against other teams here soon.”
Haliburton also continued his role as the Pacers’ FanJam master of ceremonies, explaining his approach to the rookies’ musical performances.
“Ever since I’ve become the MC over the last two years, I like to run a democracy,” he said. “I like to allow the rookies to pick their song. So, just with my approval.”
Asked about Jay Huff’s decision to wear a headband, Haliburton made clear what he really wants to see from the Pacers center.
“I want three-point making Huff, dunking Huff, and rebounding Huff,” Haliburton said. “That’s what I want.”
