Tyrese Haliburton’s dad, John Haliburton, was suspended during the 2025 NBA playoffs following an altercation with Giannis Antetokounmpo but later returned courtside as the Indiana Pacers surged in their series against the New York Knicks. This controversy and John’s eventual reinstatement have coincided with a notable playoff run by the Pacers, adding an unexpected twist to their postseason narrative.

The Incident That Led to John Haliburton’s Suspension

John Haliburton, who is not only Tyrese’s father but also a former women’s basketball coach and experienced referee, was suspended from attending playoff games after a confrontation on April 29, 2025. The incident occurred immediately after the Pacers defeated the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round. John approached the court at Madison Square Garden to celebrate and waved a towel emblazoned with his son’s image near Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was visibly upset over the loss.

Giannis and John exchanged heated words during the encounter, which quickly gained widespread attention. Giannis accused John of mocking him, quoting him as saying,

“This is what we do. This is what we effing do. This is what the eff we do.”

Following the incident, John Haliburton publicly apologized, stating,

“I sincerely apologize to Giannis, the Milwaukee Bucks, and the Pacers organization for my actions following tonight’s game. This was not a good reflection on our sport or my son, and I will not make that mistake again.”

Tyrese also addressed the situation, admitting that his father “was not in the right.”

John provided further context about his conversation with Giannis after the heated moment. He recalled,

“He grabbed my hands, he put his forehead on my forehead, and he said ‘Don’t disrespect me, don’t effing disrespect me, okay?’ And I said to him, ‘I wasn’t trying to disrespect you’, which I wasn’t. I’m telling you, I did not do that on purpose. I really did not.”

Despite the intensity of the exchange, both men ended the interaction on a respectful note, sharing a heartfelt “Love you” before parting ways. Nevertheless, the Pacers organization decided to prohibit John from attending all playoff games, both home and away, dealing a significant blow to the Haliburton family amid the high-stakes postseason atmosphere.

John Haliburton’s Comeback After Suspension

The Pacers’ Game 2 victory over the New York Knicks extended their lead to 2–0 and became a defining moment for the team’s playoff momentum. After Tyrese’s personal 31-point performance and critical shots, he turned to the broadcast camera to rally support for his father, exclaiming, “Free Pops till it’s backwards.” This lighthearted line quickly resonated across the NBA, appearing to galvanize fans and commentators alike.

NBA legend Charles Barkley took notice during the live TNT broadcast, advocating vocally for John’s return. Barkley urged the league and the Pacers,

“It’s time to let Mr. Haliburton back in the building. Adam, I’m asking you. The man paid his dues. He did something really, really stupid, but he’s been punished. I’m asking you and the Indiana Pacers to let him back in the building for Games 3 and 4.”

This public push for reinstatement proved successful. John Haliburton was permitted to attend the remaining home games of the Eastern Conference Finals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, although his prohibition from road games remains in effect. Watching from a suite, John’s presence has become a visible symbol of the Pacers’ determination and resilience.

Whether John’s return has had a direct effect on the Pacers’ performance is open to interpretation. Statisticians may debate his influence, but Tyrese’s energized play since the “Free Pops” moment suggests a psychological lift for the team that transcends numbers.

John Haliburton’s Professional Background and Role in Tyrese’s Development

Beyond this playoff saga, John Haliburton is well-established within basketball circles. As of May 2025, he works as a referee and formerly coached women’s basketball, roles that shaped his deep understanding of the sport. John also coached his son in his youth, helping to cultivate the sharp basketball intelligence that defines Tyrese’s game today.

John maintains a presence on social media through his private Instagram account @johnhaliburton. His involvement in basketball reaches beyond the court—he has become a compelling figure in the postseason narrative, embodying both the pressures and passions associated with championship pursuits.

In a league where superstition, emotion, and narrative often sway momentum, the unique story of a father–son duo facing playoff drama captivates fans. While some teams might lean on mascots or lucky rituals, the Pacers have gained a distinctive edge with John Haliburton’s courtside saga, blending family loyalty and competitive fire in a compelling mix.

The Growing Impact of the Haliburton Family in the Pacers’ Postseason Journey

As the Pacers lead the Knicks 2–1 in the series with Game 4 set to tip off in Indiana, the renewed presence of John Haliburton courtside underscores the evolving energy around the team. The Haliburton family’s story—marked by controversy, reconciliation, and renewed partnership—adds an emotional layer to the franchise’s playoff run.

The raucous atmosphere of Gainbridge Fieldhouse, combined with the symbolic return of John after suspension, may prove to be a moment of destiny for Indiana. The Knicks face a daunting challenge not only from the Pacers’ on-court skills but from the intangible momentum created by this full-circle moment. Whether viewed as coincidence or cosmic alignment, the Haliburton saga is now firmly woven into the Pacers playoff identity.