Tyrese Haliburton – Why He’s One of the NBA’s Hottest Point Guards
If you’ve been following the NBA this past season, you’ve probably seen Tyrese Haliburton’s name pop up a lot. The 24‑year‑old guard has turned heads with his smooth playmaking, reliable shooting, and basketball IQ that feels older than his years. Whether you’re a die‑hard Pacers fan or just love watching a good point guard run an offense, Haliburton is worth knowing.
Career Milestones & Stats
Haliburton entered the league in 2020 after a solid stint at Iowa State, where he proved he could score, rebound, and dish out assists. Drafted 12th overall by the Sacramento Kings, he quickly became a starter and helped the team snap a long playoff drought. In his rookie year he averaged 13.0 points, 5.3 assists and 3.0 rebounds per game while shooting 44% from the floor.
After a trade to the Indiana Pacers in 2022, his numbers jumped. Last season he posted 18.9 points, 7.3 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game, with a 41% three‑point shooting clip. He also logged a career‑high 35‑point effort against the Bucks, showing he can take over when the moment calls for it.
What sets Haliburton apart isn’t just raw stats. He’s a defender who can guard multiple positions, thanks to his quick hands and solid footwork. His career defensive rating sits among the league’s top 20 point guards, and he regularly forces turnovers that lead to fast‑break points.
What to Expect This Season
Coming into the new campaign, the Pacers have built their offense around Haliburton’s strengths. Expect him to handle most of the ball, push the tempo, and create shots for both himself and teammates like Bennedict Mathurin and Myles Turner. His chemistry with Turner on pick‑and‑rolls should produce more open looks at the rim, while his ability to stretch the floor will keep defenses honest.
One storyline to watch is how Haliburton adapts to an expanded role in clutch moments. He’s already shown poise in close games, but as the Pacers aim for a deeper playoff run, those late‑game minutes could become his biggest test. If he continues to improve his mid‑range game and stays healthy, his market value could skyrocket, drawing interest from teams looking for a floor‑general who can score and defend.
Off the court, Haliburton stays involved with community projects in Indianapolis, helping youth basketball programs and speaking about mental health. That grounded attitude translates to a calm presence on the floor, something teammates often praise.
Bottom line: Tyrese Haliburton is more than a promising rookie; he’s a well‑rounded point guard who’s already making a real impact. Keep an eye on his assists, shooting splits, and defensive hustle – they’ll likely dictate how far the Pacers can go this year.
