**Tyrese Haliburton to Miss Entire 2025-26 NBA Season After Injury**
Tyrese Haliburton’s journey in the NBA playoffs ended on a disappointing note during Game 7, and the Indiana Pacers have confirmed what many anticipated for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Kevin Pritchard, the Pacers’ president of basketball operations, announced on Monday that Haliburton will be sidelined for the entire next season due to a torn Achilles tendon. The team is prioritizing Haliburton’s long-term health and recovery, ensuring he is fully healed before returning to the court.
“I have no doubt that he will be back better than ever,” Pritchard stated to reporters. “He will not play next year, though. We would not jeopardize that now.” This news comes as no surprise following Haliburton’s injury in Game 7 against the Oklahoma City Thunder, who ultimately won the NBA Finals in a hard-fought series against the Pacers. Recovery from an Achilles tear typically takes up to a year, although some athletes have returned sooner. For instance, Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins was back on the field 11 months after his injury.
However, the nature of basketball differs significantly from football, and the Pacers are not willing to take any risks with Haliburton, even if they aim for another Finals appearance in 2026. Haliburton signed a five-year max extension with Indiana in 2023, solidifying his role as a key player for the franchise’s future. This decision was logical given his impressive contributions during the regular season and playoffs.
Haliburton’s performance in this year’s NBA Playoffs was remarkable, as he consistently delivered clutch shots that helped Indiana secure the Eastern Conference title. Despite his injury, he hoped his teammates could finish the job without him, but the Thunder ultimately claimed the championship. Reflecting on his disappointment, Haliburton expressed his feelings on social media, stating, “Words cannot express the pain of this letdown. The frustration is unfathomable. I’ve worked my whole life to get to this moment and this is how it ends? Makes no sense.”
As Haliburton begins his recovery process, the Pacers remain focused on ensuring he returns to the court at full strength, ready to contribute to the team’s success in the future.
**FAQ**
**Q: How long does it typically take to recover from an Achilles tear?**
A: Recovery from an Achilles tear generally takes up to a year, although some athletes may return to their sport sooner, depending on their rehabilitation progress.