Indiana Pacers' Tyrese Haliburton Injured in NBA Finals Game 7

Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton suffered a severe right lower leg injury, likely an Achilles tendon tear, early in Game 7 of the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, drastically impacting the Pacers' chances in the title-deciding game. Haliburton was off to a strong start, scoring nine points including three three-pointers before he slipped and fell while driving to the basket, immediately expressing frustration and leaving the game with medical assistance. His injury was confirmed by his father and team officials, with Haliburton ruled out for the remainder of the game; he had been managing a strained right calf earlier in the series, which may have contributed to the Achilles injury. Despite the setback, the Pacers showed resilience but ultimately lost 103-91 to the Thunder, who were the best team in the league that season. Haliburton is viewed as a cornerstone of the Pacers and a rising NBA star with All-Star and All-NBA honors, and his injury is seen as a significant short-term blow, though expectations remain high for his long-term career. The injury has drawn widespread concern and support from the basketball community, highlighting the dramatic shift in momentum during the Finals.