PARIS — This week, the city of Paris is set to be a nostalgic experience for San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama, as he returns to his roots as a celebrated French athlete, ready to showcase his skills in front of his compatriots.
Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton will also find himself reminiscing during this week’s games. His previous trip to France in August ended in triumph, where he stood proudly on the medal podium representing the USA Basketball team that secured a fifth consecutive gold medal at the Olympics. With the Pacers facing off against the Spurs this Thursday and Saturday, Haliburton is bound to reflect on the sheer joy and pride of being at basketball’s pinnacle.
“It’s truly special to be part of such a remarkable team. I feel incredibly blessed,” Haliburton expressed. “Once you experience the thrill of success, it ignites a desire for more wins.”
Looking back to November 30, 2023, Haliburton and the Pacers experienced a tough loss against the Miami Heat, falling short with a score of 142-132. Haliburton’s frustration was palpable despite his impressive performance, accumulating 44 points and 10 assists. Indiana failed to hold their lead, surrendering 45 points in the final quarter of the game.
Calmly seated at his locker post-game, he engaged with the media and eloquently expressed his ambition: “I just want to win. I’m tired of being a loser.” Those words weighed heavily; they felt like a commitment, and it appears he has taken them to heart. Since that night, here’s a glimpse into the success that he and the Pacers have experienced:
— They reached the championship game of the inaugural NBA in-season tournament, known as the NBA Cup.
— They advanced to the Eastern Conference finals, marking the first postseason journey of Haliburton’s career.
— He recorded 32 points during an All-Star Game, including an impressive ten 3-pointers, five of which came in a rapid 90 seconds.
— He earned a spot on his first All-NBA team.
— He clinched his first assist title.
— He proudly contributed to the team that took home Olympic gold.
Reflecting on this whirlwind period, Haliburton remarked, “It’s been an unbelievable year and a half for me.”
When Haliburton is healthy, and despite injury challenges, the Pacers become a formidable opponent. He has shot over 50% in 14 games this season; the Pacers have won 12 of those contests. His scoring prowess shines through when he surpasses 20 points, having led the team to 13 wins out of 15 instances. Furthermore, with 10 or more assists in 16 games, Indiana boasts a record of 13-3 in those matchups.
Despite facing some challenging phases, the Pacers hold an overall record of 24-19, placing them fifth in the Eastern Conference, only a game behind fourth-place Milwaukee and two games ahead of Miami, currently in eighth. Two victories in Paris would undoubtedly assist in solidifying their playoff positioning.
“Our early-season schedule was intense, partly due to the Paris trip and the compressed timeline,” offered Pacers coach Rick Carlisle, shedding light on their recent success that includes nine wins in their last 11 games. “Challenges like these strengthen the team’s resolve. It’s the pressure that either breaks you or shapes you into diamonds, and we hope it allows us to shine.”
The Pacers are acutely aware of their potential, and Haliburton is equally aware of his capabilities. Though the games in Paris shine a spotlight on Wembanyama, the young French star, Haliburton is no stranger to competing against the best. Last summer’s Olympic experience allowed him to form bonds with elite players and earn precious signed jerseys, with the memories forged continuing to inspire him.
“It’s been a lot, and I am incredibly grateful for all of these opportunities,” Haliburton shared.
Regardless of the outcomes in Paris, it’s clear that Haliburton has no intention of feeling like a loser anytime soon.
