Before emerging as one of the NBA’s brightest young stars with the Indiana Pacers, Tyrese Haliburton laid the foundation for his basketball journey at Iowa State University. It was in Ames, Iowa, where Haliburton’s talent began to shine on the national stage, setting the tone for what would become a standout professional career.
Early Success at Iowa State
Haliburton joined the Iowa State Cyclones in 2018 as a highly touted recruit. As a freshman during the 2018-2019 season, he immediately made his mark. Despite being surrounded by experienced upperclassmen, Haliburton earned a starting role and quickly impressed with his poise, court vision, and efficiency. He wasn’t just a role player—he was a key contributor to a team that would earn a sixth seed in the NCAA Tournament.
That season, the Cyclones enjoyed several signature wins, and Haliburton’s impact—especially in orchestrating the offense and creating opportunities for his teammates—did not go unnoticed. Unfortunately, their tournament journey was cut short. In a stunning upset, Iowa State was eliminated in the first round by the 11th-seeded Ohio State Buckeyes. It would be Haliburton’s only appearance in the March Madness tournament, but the experience was invaluable. It shaped his competitive drive and gave him the clarity to refine his game.
Sophomore Season and NBA Draft Recognition
Fueled by the bitter ending to his freshman year, Haliburton returned for a sophomore campaign in 2019-2020 with renewed determination. Taking on a much larger role, he led the team in scoring and assists while showcasing even greater versatility. His basketball IQ, passing acumen, and ability to lead stood out. He was eventually honored with a selection to the All-Big 12 Second Team.
Although his sophomore year was cut short due to a fractured wrist and the COVID-19 pandemic, Haliburton’s NBA draft stock soared. Scouts praised his ability to impact games without dominating the ball, and his unselfishness made him a coveted asset for professional teams. In 2020, Haliburton declared for the NBA Draft and was selected 12th overall by the Sacramento Kings. His journey from Ames to the professional ranks had begun.
A Star Emerges in the NBA
Haliburton played two productive seasons with the Kings before being traded to the Indiana Pacers in a move that would define the next chapter of his career. In Indiana, Haliburton blossomed into an All-Star-caliber guard. His unique playing style—characterized by deceptive handles, elite passing, and a feel for the game beyond his years—made him a fan favorite and a franchise cornerstone.
By 2025, he had become a two-time NBA All-Star and had led the Pacers to their first NBA Finals appearance in decades. His leadership both on and off the court was widely praised, as was his commitment to community and team culture. Haliburton’s ascension to stardom was not just about stats—it was about influence, character, and consistency.
Injury in Game 7 of the NBA Finals
The 2025 NBA Finals between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder was a dream scenario for fans of both franchises. It was a hard-fought series, with each game pushing both teams to their limits. Tyrese Haliburton was the heartbeat of the Pacers throughout the series, playing through pain and adversity. He delivered clutch moments, masterful assists, and inspiring performances.
Unfortunately, the fairy tale took a tragic turn in Game 7. During a pivotal second-half possession, Haliburton went down with a severe Achilles injury. The silence in the arena was deafening. The Pacers ultimately lost the game and the championship, but Haliburton’s efforts were nothing short of heroic. Despite the injury, his presence on the court embodied resilience and commitment. The incident cast a shadow over the team’s otherwise historic run, but it also galvanized the fanbase’s admiration for their star guard.
Post-Injury Positivity and Community Support
Following his injury, many feared Haliburton would withdraw from the public eye to recover in solitude. Instead, he did the opposite. Embracing his role as a community figure and team leader, Haliburton remained active—physically limited but mentally engaged. His optimism and upbeat attitude became an inspiration to fans, teammates, and fellow athletes.
Social media platforms were filled with praise and support. Fans across the nation expressed their admiration and well wishes for Haliburton’s recovery. From heartfelt messages to humorous and emotional memes, the basketball world rallied around him.
One fan called him a “sports ambassador,” while another noted how he was retracing his roots in the most meaningful way. Others posted tributes, imagining alternate realities where Haliburton was named Finals MVP. The love was overwhelming, and Haliburton acknowledged it with grace and humility.
Return to Iowa State: A Homecoming
One of the most touching moments in Haliburton’s post-Finals journey came when he returned to Iowa State University. Despite needing a scooter to aid his mobility due to the Achilles injury, Haliburton made the trip back to Ames. He visited the Cyclones football team ahead of their upcoming season, offering encouragement and showing that his heart still belonged to the school that launched his career.
It was more than a symbolic gesture—it was a heartfelt reunion with his roots. For Cyclone athletes and students, having an NBA star return to campus—even in the middle of personal adversity—was deeply motivating. Haliburton’s visit reminded them that greatness often begins at home, and that even the most successful never forget where they came from.
His presence energized the football squad, and players and coaches alike appreciated the encouragement. It wasn’t just about sports—it was about culture, community, and the bonds that transcend the game.
Iowa State Football’s Recent Success
Haliburton’s visit came at a high point for the Iowa State football program. Under the leadership of head coach Matt Campbell, the Cyclones had just completed one of their most successful seasons in school history. For the first time ever, they achieved a 10-win campaign and advanced to the Big 12 Championship Game.
Though they ultimately fell to Arizona State in the final, their victory over Miami in the Pop-Tarts Bowl was a signature moment. The win served as validation for the years of groundwork laid by Campbell and his staff. With the coach entering his 10th season at the helm, expectations for continued success are high.
Haliburton’s visit, while centered on support, also represented a passing of the torch—from one generation of Cyclone excellence to the next. His example of loyalty and perseverance stands as a blueprint for current and future Cyclones across all sports.
The Legacy of Connection
Haliburton’s journey is a testament to staying grounded even as one rises to prominence. His decision to return to Iowa State, to cheer on its football team during a critical preseason period, reveals the character behind the All-Star exterior. It’s a reminder that greatness is not only measured by trophies and stats but also by one’s willingness to give back and uplift others.
In the midst of personal recovery, Haliburton chose community over isolation. He chose to return to the place where his dreams began. And in doing so, he reminded Cyclone Nation—and the broader sports world—that the values forged in college sports can endure long after the final buzzer.
The Road Ahead
As Haliburton begins the long process of rehabilitation from his Achilles injury, his future remains bright. At just 25 years old, he has already accomplished more than many do in a lifetime. But those who know him best understand that his story is far from finished.
With his elite work ethic, a positive mindset, and a strong support system, Haliburton is poised to make a triumphant return to the NBA. Whether it’s later in the 2025-26 season or the year after, fans eagerly await the moment he steps back on the court.
For now, Haliburton continues to show why he’s one of the most respected players in the league—not just for what he does during games, but for how he leads, supports, and inspires when the lights are off.
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