INDIANAPOLIS — In the last game of a Pacers’ season he lost entirely due to injury that, in turn, became one of the worst seasons in franchise history, Tyrese Haliburton took the microphone to thank the fanbase for hanging in there.
Sunday’s season finale was considered Fan Appreciation Day, and a player always gives a pre-game address. Haliburton got to give one to end a season defined by his absence.
“Thank you guys for an amazing year,” Haliburton said. “You guys have been awesome. I know it’s been a long year. We’ve been battling. It’s been a tough year. We appreciate you guys for showing up and showing love every game. You guys are the best fans in the world.”
The Pacers are ending their season in mid-April after back to back playoff runs, one to the Eastern Conference Finals, the other to their first NBA Finals since 2000. Haliburton acknowledged that the bar will be higher for next year.
“Don’t get used to the Pacers not playing in April, May and June,” Haliburton said. “Go Pacers.”
Dustin Dopirak covers the Pacers all season. Get more coverage on IndyStarTV and with the Pacers Insider newsletter.
