Tyrese Haliburton delivered a standout performance during the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Finals, leading the Indiana Pacers to a critical Game 6 victory over the New York Knicks. This moment not only marked Indiana’s return to the NBA Finals after 25 years but also showcased Haliburton’s growing stature as a key player, fueled by unwavering emotional support from his longtime girlfriend Jade Jones. Haliburton’s blend of scoring, playmaking, and defensive prowess underscored why fans are rallying behind the
“Tyrese Haliburton NBA Finals emotional support”
narrative.
On that unforgettable night, Haliburton scored 21 points, dished out 13 assists, and tallied 3 steals, calmly dismantling the Knicks defense. Despite his brilliance on the court, a bittersweet undercurrent lingered as Haliburton was passed over for the Eastern Conference Finals MVP award in favor of Pascal Siakam. Still, the Indiana guard found solace in Jones’s heartfelt four-word message shared on social media, a gesture that resonated far beyond the arena.
Jade Jones: A Steadfast Pillar Behind the Scenes
Jade Jones’s role goes beyond that of a typical sports partner. Their story traces back to their collegiate days with the Iowa State Cyclones, where mutual respect and affection first blossomed. Since 2019, Jones has been a constant presence for Haliburton, exuding encouragement and steadfast belief as he rose from promising prospect to NBA star.
Jones, an elementary school teacher, model, and influencer with a dedicated 43,000+ followers on Instagram, balances multiple careers including managing an e-commerce brand called Team Haliburton. Their relationship reflects a blend of genuine connection and shared ambition. They have celebrated milestones with vacations in Turks and Caicos, joyous moments at Disney World, and marked six years together just this April. Their bond is further symbolized by their dog Ames, named after a locale with deep meaning for the couple.
After the Game 6 win, Jade posted a photo on her Instagram story showing her embracing Haliburton with the caption: Proud is an understatement. This simple yet profound message helped soften the blow of the MVP snub and reinforced the emotional support that fuels Haliburton’s continued excellence.
The Emotional Weight of Family and Community
Game 6 was significant not just for the Pacers’ victory but for the personal stories interwoven on that night. Haliburton’s father, recently reinstated after a ban prevented his attendance for months, was present courtside. His visibly proud presence added a heartfelt layer to the celebration as he declared,
“I told you, it is going to be better than you think.”
—Dad of Tyrese Haliburton
This moment reinforced the narrative of redemption and support shaping Haliburton’s journey. The night also saw Caitlin Clark, star of the Indiana Fever currently sidelined due to injury, join the celebration. Clark’s visible camaraderie with Jones, including a moment where she carried Jade in celebration, exemplified unity and community spirit surrounding the team.
Together, this convergence of family, fans, and teammates created a charged atmosphere evocative of the classic Hoosiers spirit. The synergy was reflected in Haliburton’s orchestrating the offense with precision reminiscent of historic Indiana greats, dispelling any lingering ghosts from decades past.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Expectations in the NBA Finals
Indiana’s success in reaching the NBA Finals sets the stage for a highly anticipated matchup against the young, dynamic Oklahoma City Thunder. With a roster known for athleticism and high-flying energy, the Thunder represent a formidable challenge for Haliburton and the Pacers.
Haliburton enters the Finals driven by more than just team pride—there is a personal mission to prove his worth on the league‘s biggest stage, amplified by the feelings of being overlooked despite stellar performances. Backed by Jones’s emotional encouragement, his father’s support, and a fanbase starved for Finals glory, Haliburton is poised to lead with renewed focus.
In a fitting footnote, Haliburton received the Larry Bird Trophy while standing on the final broadcast set of TNT’s Inside the NBA, a symbolic moment bridging past and present Indiana basketball legacies.
The Power of Support Beyond the Court
Tyrese Haliburton’s rise is emblematic not just of athletic skill but of the critical importance of a strong support system. Jones’s understated yet impactful social media presence reveals how emotional reinforcement can influence a player’s mindset and performance. This four-word message—though simple—is a powerful reminder that recognition and belief from loved ones may mean more than official accolades.
As Haliburton continues this Finals journey, his story serves as a reminder that talent combined with love and loyalty can create moments that resonate far beyond the scoreboard. His role as a franchise face is solidifying, and with such a foundation both on and off the court, the future looks promising for both the player and the Indiana Pacers.