Brief

Tyrese Haliburton returns to the court, scores 23 points for Pacers

Haliburton fought back tears after posting a 23‑point, 12‑assist performance in Indiana’s season‑opening win.

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 22 Oct 2026 11:16:46 GMT

Tyrese Haliburton played his first meaningful NBA game in 486 days on Wednesday, scoring 23 points and dishing out 12 assists as the Indiana Pacers edged the New Orleans Pelicans 123‑120 at the Smoothie King Center.

Haliburton, who tore his Achilles in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, said, “It means a lot to be back out here,” while wiping away tears with a towel. He logged 34 minutes, shot 53.3% from the field and added two rebounds.

The win marked Indiana’s first victory of the season after a 19‑63 record the year before. Haliburton, a two‑time All‑NBA selection, had appeared in three preseason games before the opener but had not played in a regular‑season contest since his injury.

Key facts

• Haliburton scored 23 points and 12 assists in the Pacers' 123‑120 win over the Pelicans. (nypost.com)
• The game was played at New Orleans' Smoothie King Center on Oct. 21, 2026. (nypost.com)
• Haliburton suffered an Achilles tear in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals. (nypost.com)
• He played 34 minutes, shot 53.3% and added two rebounds. (nypost.com)

Sources

• [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “Tyrese Haliburton fights back tears in emotional Pacers return after Achilles tear”