Tyrese Haliburton Returns to the Court in a Different Role: Hosting Youth Basketball Camp Amid Achilles Rehab
The city of Westfield, just outside Indianapolis, got a welcome sight on Saturday as Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton returned to the
basketball court. This time, though, it wasn’t to lace up his sneakers, run plays, or sink deep threes for the Pacers. Instead, Haliburton was there in a different but equally impactful role: as a mentor and motivator for the next generation of hoopers at his youth basketball camp.
Still early in his recovery from a devastating Achilles tendon injury suffered just two months ago, Haliburton wasn’t doing the drills himself. Doctors have made it clear that running, cutting, and shooting will come much later in the rehab process. But simply seeing him back on the hardwood, moving around with the kids and offering words of encouragement, was enough to bring smiles to the faces of young players and parents alike.
A Different Kind of Presence
Haliburton, known across the league not just for his playmaking ability but also for his charisma and leadership, demonstrated those same traits at the camp. Though unable to physically compete, he moved around the gym with ease, chatting with campers, answering their questions, and offering insight into what it takes to play at a high level.
“It feels good to be back in this setting,” Haliburton said. “Even though I can’t be out there doing everything, I can still share what I know and help these kids grow. That’s important to me.”
This injury, while a setback, has not diminished his spirit. Achilles rehab is one of the toughest journeys in sports, requiring months of patience, strength training, and careful progression. But Haliburton has embraced it with optimism, often sharing glimpses of his recovery process on social media. Saturday’s camp was a reminder that he hasn’t lost sight of the bigger picture: using his platform to inspire.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The camp attracted dozens of young basketball players from across Indianapolis and surrounding areas, all eager to learn from one of the NBA’s brightest young stars. For many, it was their first chance to meet a professional athlete up close. For others, it was a chance to pick up skills and lessons that go beyond the basketball court.
Haliburton spent time emphasizing fundamentals — footwork, ball handling, and decision-making — but also hammered home the importance of discipline, education, and teamwork. Parents in the stands noted how engaged the kids were, hanging on his every word.
One camper summed it up best: “It’s cool to see him here even though he’s hurt. It shows he really cares about us.”
Looking Ahead
For the Pacers, Haliburton’s presence at the camp was also encouraging. His leadership is a major cornerstone of the team’s identity, and seeing him continue to be active and positive bodes well for both his recovery and his role in the locker room. While no timetable has been officially set for his return, the Pacers remain optimistic that he’ll make a full comeback sometime next season.
Until then, Haliburton seems determined to stay connected to the game in every way possible. Hosting this youth camp may not be the same as draining clutch shots at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, but it’s another reminder of the impact athletes can have beyond the scoreboard.
For the kids who spent Saturday learning from him, it was unforgettable. For Haliburton, it was progress — not in the form of running or jumping, but in demonstrating resilience, commitment, and leadership even in the face of adversity.
As he continues his long rehab journey, Pacers fans can take comfort in knowing their star guard isn’t just working on getting healthy. He’s also leaving an imprint on the community, showing that greatness is measured not only in points and assists, but also in the lives you touch along the way.