Tyrese Haliburton Taunts Jalen Brunson at WWE Show

Haliburton Ready for NBA Return After Achilles Tear

Pacers point guard Tyrese Haliburton suffered a torn Achilles tendon during Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals. He missed the entire last season while Indiana endured its worst campaign in franchise history. The Pacers were knocked out by the Knicks in both the 2024 and 2025 playoffs, clearing the path for New York’s championship. Haliburton is slated to be back for the upcoming season and is already looking ahead.

WWE Appearance Turns Into a Showdown

At Saturday night’s event in Madison Square Garden, Haliburton entered the arena to Seth Rollins’ theme music, clutching a chair. He stalked the crowd where Knicks guard Jalen Brunson and WWE champion Roman Reigns were seated. Haliburton pointed at Brunson and declared, “I’ll see you in a couple months. You can’t beat me.” Meanwhile, Rollins jumped into the ring and blindsided Reigns, stealing the spotlight.

The Pacers–Knicks Rivalry Context

The Pacers eliminated the Knicks in the NBA playoffs for both 2024 and 2025. Haliburton’s season‑ending injury came in that Game 7 of the 2025 Finals, leaving Indiana without its star floor general. The franchise’s struggles that followed marked the worst record in its history. With Haliburton back, the Pacers aim to close the gap on the Knicks.

Wrestling Roots and Future Basketball Promise

Haliburton has long been a fan of professional wrestling, making this intermission appearance a familiar scene for him. He has popped up at events before, blending his love for the sport with his basketball career. When he returns to the court next season, he will have to live up to the trash‑talk he delivered to Brunson. Fans are watching to see if his WWE bravado translates into on‑court intensity.

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