Pacers' Tyrese Haliburton to Miss Entire 2025-26 Season After Achilles Tear

Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton suffered a ruptured right Achilles tendon early in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, an injury that will sideline him for the entire 2025-26 season and delay his return until the 2026-27 training camp, roughly 15 months later. Despite a lingering calf injury and advice from doctors and close contacts to sit out, Haliburton chose to play in the Finals, expressing no regrets about his decision even after consulting with Kevin Durant, who reassured him about playing through injury. Haliburton described the grueling recovery process as monotonous and mentally demanding, likening it to "Groundhog Day" due to the repetitive nature of rehabilitation exercises, but he remains focused and engaged by journaling and planning his eventual comeback. His injury not only impacts his personal career but also dealt a significant blow to the Pacers’ championship hopes, as he is considered the franchise's face and key player. Haliburton’s candid updates reveal both the physical and mental challenges he faces while emphasizing his determination to return and contribute to the team’s success in the future.