Tyrese Haliburton injured his Achilles tendon during NBA Finals Game 7

In a heartbreaking Finals loss to Oklahoma City, the Indiana Pacers‘ nightmare materialized in the opening minutes of NBA Finals Game 7 2025. Tyrese Haliburton, the team’s star, collapsed on the Thunder’s court after a non-contact injury to his right Achilles tendon, prematurely ending his game and potentially his 2025-2026 season.

The injury occurred with 4 minutes and 34 seconds remaining in the first quarter, as Haliburton attempted to drive to the basket. Without any contact from opponents, the point guard immediately collapsed, hitting the floor in frustration and screaming in pain. The footage clearly shows something gave way in his right leg.

A promising start abruptly ended

Ironically, Haliburton was having an excellent start before his injury. In just seven minutes of play, he had already scored 9 points, making 3 of his 4 three-point attempts. This promising performance contrasted with his recent struggles in these Finals.

Haliburton’s father confirmed to ESPN’s Lisa Salters that his son suffered an Achilles injury but was « in good spirits and watching the game from the locker room. » This injury followed a right calf strain sustained in Game 5, which had already hampered him during the last two games.

Despite the persistent pain, Haliburton had insisted on playing this decisive Game 7. « I’m pretty much in the same situation as before Game 6, a little stiff, a little sore, » he had said Saturday. « I’m trying to take care of it as best I can, but I’ll be ready for Game 7. »

An emotional wave throughout the basketball world

Haliburton’s injury triggered an emotional response throughout the basketball world. LeBron James was among the first to react on social media with an explicit message: « F—!!!!!!!!! » Patrick Mahomes, Trae Young, Jalen Brunson, and many other stars also showed their support for the 25-year-old player.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder’s star, also expressed his compassion about the only shadow over his evening: « My heart sank for him. I can’t imagine playing the biggest game of my life and having something like that happen. It’s so unfortunate. It’s not fair. Competition sometimes isn’t fair. I felt so bad for him… My prayers are definitely with him. »

Without their star point guard, the Pacers couldn’t keep up with Oklahoma City’s pace, who won their first title in franchise history.