Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton is facing a challenging recovery following surgery for a torn Achilles tendon, but his playful interactions with girlfriend Jade Jones are helping him stay positive. Just days after the operation, Haliburton was seen keeping spirits light at home, demonstrating resilience amid the long road ahead.
How Haliburton Is Staying Positive During Recovery
Following the injury sustained in Game 7 of the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Haliburton’s season—and possibly the entire 2025-26 campaign—are expected to be sidelined. The injury occurred early in the game after Haliburton made three three-pointers, leading to an MRI that confirmed the torn right Achilles tendon. Despite this setback, the Pacers star has maintained a positive outlook.
Haliburton recently appeared in a lighthearted Instagram Story shared by his longtime partner, Jade Jones, giving fans insight into his off-court recovery process. In the clip, he balanced on one leg with his other foot resting on a stationary bike, ringing a small bell repeatedly while calling out Jones’s name, adding some humor to the challenging situation. Jones captioned the video noting,
“This guy did NOT order a bell guys please,”
highlighting his lively and playful nature even during tough times.
Support from Girlfriend Jade Jones and Personal Reflections
Jones, who has been by Haliburton’s side since their days at Iowa State University, has offered steadfast support throughout his recovery. After the Finals, she took to Instagram to celebrate both Haliburton and the Pacers’ memorable postseason run, calling it
“one of the best things we have ever been a part of.”
She also praised Haliburton’s determination, writing
“A run we will remember for a lifetime. You are so amazing!”
In a heartfelt message to fans after his surgery, Haliburton described his injury as a moment of shock but expressed no regrets about pushing through earlier injuries to help Indiana chase its first NBA championship. He wrote,
“I’d do it again, and again after that, to fight for this city and my brothers,”
signaling his unyielding commitment to his team and community.
Outlook on Recovery and Future Prospects
Though the torn Achilles poses a significant challenge, the combination of Haliburton’s humor and the support from Jones appears to bolster his morale during recovery. His upbeat attitude and close bond with those around him provide a hopeful foundation as he aims to return to the court. Fans and teammates alike will be watching closely as he embarks on what promises to be a lengthy but determined rehabilitation journey.