The NBA playoffs often reveal a player’s true caliber.
For Tyrese Haliburton, this postseason is becoming his breakout moment, shutting down critics who questioned his elite status.
The Indiana Pacers star has been nothing short of spectacular, turning heads and changing minds across the league.
Even NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, known for his tough assessments of up-and-coming talent, has joined the Haliburton bandwagon.
“First of all, Tyrese Haliburton is not an overrated player,” O’Neal said on “Inside the NBA.” “He’s a great player and he plays the right way. And all the kids out there, the ones who can’t jump high and don’t have the Steph Curry form, watch him and steal all that he does. He played a great game.”
“First of all, Tyrese Haliburton is NOT an overrated player.” 🗣️
Shaq had praise for Hali after he led the Pacers to a 2-0 series lead pic.twitter.com/Y8U6rqdZQb
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) May 7, 2025
Since joining the Pacers in a trade three seasons ago, Haliburton has transformed the franchise with his vision and leadership.
Consecutive All-Star Game selections validated his regular-season excellence, but questions persisted about his ability to perform when the stakes reached their peak.
Those doubts are vanishing with each playoff game. After impressing against the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round, Haliburton delivered another clutch performance in Game 2 against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
With the Pacers down 119-116 and just 12.1 seconds remaining, he made the first of two free throws, missed the second, then grabbed the rebound before drilling a game-winning 3-pointer as time nearly expired.
While his stat line of 19 points, nine rebounds and four assists might not seem spectacular, his poise under pressure propelled an incredible comeback victory.
His ability to make winning plays when they matter most has become his signature.
The Pacers now hold a stunning 2-0 series lead over the Cavaliers, the top seed in the Eastern Conference.
NEXT: Tyrese Haliburton Raves About Pacers’ Resiliency After Tough Win Against Cavs
