This article featured how Hali's world opened up and how he got to explore other things outside of basketball… but my favorite part was when he shifted his attention back to helping the team.
Haliburton has returned to the Pacers bench on game days — this time as more of a player-coach.
“He’s such a smart player whether it’s in film, practice or a game,” Pacers reserve point guard TJ McConnell said. “He’s always dissecting the game, breaking it down. That’s why he’s so good.
“Hearing his voice and his leadership has been amazing.”
Haliburton reads play sheets with coaches and asks teammates what they’re seeing on the court so he can offer guidance. He continues to take his role as leader as seriously as he can, while understanding his teammates are seeing the game differently because of being on the floor.
Despite the way the season is going without him, at just 9-31 the season after a finals berth, Haliburton wants them to know he’s still in it with them.
“He’s still talking to everybody and making sure everybody’s head is good,” Pacers wing Obi Toppin said, “just making sure everybody’s staying on the right track even though we’re not having the greatest season this year.
“I feel like we’ve built a culture here and he understands that.”
Excited to see how his player-coach experience will help him once he gets back on the court next year.
4 comments
Getting through this year with that winning mentality is going to be tough, but it could lead to a mentally strong team next year. So glad to have Ty (and Pascal).
Tyrese is rising quickly through my favorite-all-time-Pacer ranks… not sure anyone can top Reggie but I’ll be happy to share the top spot. Hali, we got you! Keep being yourself, my guy! Next year will be bonkers.
That’s our fucking guy right there.
Thank goodness the Kings didn’t realize they had a franchise player on their hands.