'I never lose belief' — Tyrese Haliburton's clutch shots and vulnerability have revived Indiana basketball's soul
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This isn't mere chance; it's a recurring theme. Four playoff rounds, four clutch shots. But behind the spectacle is a more significant tale: a genuine young man facing mental health challenges, restoring hope in a team eager for purpose.
How a 25‑year‑old underdog transformed pressure into legacy‑defining moments
Haliburton has made a name for himself in basketball history. He's now 4-for-4 with shots that either won or tied the game in the last five seconds of each playoff round: against Milwaukee, Cleveland, New York, and Oklahoma City.
In Game 1 of the Finals against the Thunder, his 21-foot jumper wiped out a 15-point deficit and shocked the top-seeded Thunder in a 111–110 victory. His incredible late-game precision—hitting about ~86% on game-tying or go-ahead shots this postseason—outshines legends like Kobe Bryant in similar moments.
Haliburton's effect isn't merely about stats—it's captivating. The crowd's response at Indianapolis International Airport went viral, featuring a middle-aged fan celebrating joyfully with total strangers.
Even NBA icon Dwyane Wade called him a "superstar" after that Finals victory. This collective vibe—fueled by pure hope—indicates a comeback of spirit in Indiana's sports scene.
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Yet under the heroism, there's a sense of humility. Haliburton candidly talked about dealing with what he referred to as 'basketball depression' halfway through the season. He confessed, 'I didn't even want to come to work,' and reached out for support in handling expectations and anxiety.
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By doing this, he broke the silence surrounding athlete mental health and reconnected with fans not through highlight reels, but by displaying genuine vulnerability.
Before this game, Haliburton had already racked up two NBA All-Star selections, two All-NBA Third Team honors, and an Olympic gold medal with Team USA. Yet, his achievements in the playoffs have overshadowed those accolades. As per ESPN's research, he's made six clutch shots in the last 90 seconds—an unmatched feat since 1997.
His win probability added (WPA) during clutch situations this playoffs is around 2.5, which is higher than any player in the history of the modern NBA playoffs.
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Tyrese Haliburton's path—from struggles with self-assurance to game-winning shots—has revitalized Indiana's energy both on and off the court. Four consecutive rounds, four iconic shots; promoting mental health; record-breaking achievements. Now, with just one championship ring separating him from everlasting greatness, Haliburton isn't merely pursuing history—he's living it. And if faith can turn into legacy, then Indiana's spirit is revived—one crucial shot at a time.
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