Tyrese Haliburton and Caitlin Clark, prominent figures in Indiana basketball, have developed a close friendship that stretches beyond their on-court rivalry. Their connection deepened during the 2023-24 season, partly because Haliburton had previously worked alongside Clark’s boyfriend, Connor McCaffery, who was the Basketball Development Coordinator for the Indiana Pacers. The friendship between Haliburton and Clark has become a meaningful part of their lives in Indiana’s basketball community.

Supporting Each Other Through Rookie Challenges

Clark’s rookie WNBA season proved challenging, and Haliburton was often present at her games, offering support as she adjusted to the professional level. Clark improved significantly throughout the season, averaging 19.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, 8.4 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. Her shooting accuracy stood at 40.3% overall, 31.4% from three-point range, and 75% from free throws. Clark’s growth helped transform a slow 1-9 start into a balanced 20-20 finish, securing the sixth seed in the standings and leading the Indiana Fever to their first playoff appearance since 2016.

Haliburton played a crucial role in encouraging Clark, attending much of the season and continuously motivating the Indiana Fever guard to elevate her game.

From Court Teammates to Double Date Companions

Their friendship has evolved beyond basketball, as revealed by ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, who reported that the two stars often go on double dates with their significant others.

“The four of us hang out all the time,”

Haliburton said.

“She goes through a lot, as you know. There’s a lot of weight and eyes on her. Obviously there is on me as well, but hers are amplified times a million.”

—Tyrese Haliburton

Friendly Rivalry Over Turnovers

Conversations between Haliburton and Clark often involve lighthearted teasing about turnovers. The 23-year-old guard jokes about receiving messages from Haliburton when her mistakes pile up during games. As a former Sacramento Kings floor general, Haliburton boasts a 5.6 assist-to-turnover ratio, and he uses humor to point out where Clark can improve.

“He’ll text me after a game when I have 10 turnovers and be like, ‘Nice triple-double,’”

Clark admitted.

Haliburton acknowledges these exchanges are both playful and instructive, helping Clark focus on development.

“I mess with her about it,”

Haliburton explained.

But she’s going to do what she does. She’s going to keep growing. She makes the right play more times than not.

Basketball is a genderless language. We both just love the game.”

—Tyrese Haliburton

Mutual Influence and Upcoming Key Games

Clark has shown keen interest in Haliburton’s performances and the Pacers’ progress during the offseason. Notably, the Pacers boast an 8-0 record when Clark attends games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Looking ahead, the Pacers have an opportunity to take a 3-1 lead against the Oklahoma City Thunder, while Clark’s Fever prepares to face the New York Liberty in an important home playoff match.