Tyrese Haliburton’s rise from a lightly recruited high school player to an NBA All-Star underscores the remarkable path of his college career and athletic development. Starting at Iowa State University in 2018, Haliburton’s college journey and stats highlight how dedication and skill transformed him into a leading figure for the Indiana Pacers by the 2025 NBA Finals.

The Beginning of Tyrese Haliburton’s Collegiate Career

After graduating from Oshkosh North High School in Wisconsin, where he earned the title of 2018 Wisconsin Gatorade Player of the Year, Tyrese Haliburton chose to continue his basketball and academic pursuits at Iowa State University. Despite receiving offers from programs like Nebraska, Minnesota, Cincinnati, and Northern Iowa, Haliburton was drawn to Iowa State’s reputation for strong player development and consistent coaching staff, believing he could make an immediate impact with the Cyclones.

Though not widely considered a top-tier recruit, the 6’5 point guard quickly proved himself worthy of national attention. At Iowa State, he majored in business while simultaneously establishing himself as a leader and skilled playmaker on the basketball court. His early performances indicated a promising future, setting the stage for his swift evolution into one of the sport’s brightest young talents.

Tyrese Haliburton’s Impressive College Basketball Performance

Haliburton’s freshman season was marked by consistent playing time and solid contributions across multiple statistical categories. He played 35 games, averaging 33 minutes per contest with 6.8 points, 3.6 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game. Although he did not lead Iowa State in scoring, his presence aided the Cyclones in securing the 2019 Big 12 Championship and an appearance in the NCAA Tournament.

The sophomore campaign showcased his dramatic improvement and burgeoning skills. Over 22 games, Haliburton averaged 15.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists, elevating his status to one of the premier guards in college basketball. His playstyle earned him All-Big 12 honors and a place on the mid-season watchlist for the prestigious Wooden Award. Despite a wrist injury cutting short his season, scouts had already identified him as a lottery pick prospect for the NBA Draft. Notably, he also achieved a rare triple-double, a reflection of his all-around abilities and court vision.

Balancing Academics and Athletics at Iowa State

In addition to his on-court achievements, Haliburton sustained a rigorous academic workload as a business major, earning recognition for his commitment to scholarship. While his exact GPA is not publicly available, he consistently received the Academic All-Big 12 First Team honors and was included multiple times on the Big 12 Commissioner’s Honor Roll. Iowa State also acknowledged him as an ISU Scholar-Athlete. His academic discipline matched his leadership and maturity on the court, qualities respected by coaches, teammates, and fans alike.

Steve Prohm, head coach of the Cyclones, remarked on Haliburton’s personality and potential, stating,

“Amazing smile, amazing spirit and an ability to connect people,”

and added,

“I always said he could be the governor of Wisconsin if he wanted – and an NBA All-Star.”

This praise encapsulates the combination of Haliburton’s character and talent that helped him excel both in college and beyond.

Significance of Haliburton’s College Years in His NBA Trajectory

Haliburton’s experience at Iowa State laid the foundation for his ascent to the professional ranks. Transitioning from a three-star recruit to a projected top lottery pick, his impact at the collegiate level revealed his work ethic, basketball IQ, and leadership. Selected 12th overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 2020 NBA Draft, he later became a key figure for the Indiana Pacers, guiding them to their first NBA Finals appearance since 2000.

His story challenges the notion that only five-star recruits can succeed at the highest levels of basketball. By thriving within Iowa State’s system and overcoming initial doubts about his size and recruitment status, Haliburton’s journey exemplifies how perseverance, skill development, and strategic choice of college program can shape a player’s future in the NBA.

As Haliburton continues to make his mark in the league, his collegiate accomplishments and stats remain a testament to his growth and potential. His experience offers hope and inspiration to aspiring athletes who may not begin their careers with widespread attention but possess the determination to reach the top.