Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton's journey to becoming a prominent NBA figure and current Olympian with Team USA is one marked by resilience and determination. His story, rooted in humble beginnings in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, underscores the challenges he's overcome on his path to the global stage.
A Rocky Start in Oshkosh
As a high school freshman in Oshkosh, Haliburton faced a significant setback early in his basketball career. He was essentially let go from the Playground Warriors AAU team, a move that could have easily derailed his aspirations. "They never said that I was cut, but my parents told me that it was essentially like, 'He can come if he wants to,'" Haliburton recalls. This ambiguous dismissal left a young Haliburton questioning his future in the sport.
In response to this setback, Haliburton joined Wisconsin United, a team based in Milwaukee. This decision required a considerable commitment from the young athlete and his family, involving a three-hour round trip from their home in Oshkosh for practices and games. The drive and dedication paid off as Haliburton found a more supportive environment to hone his skills.
Finding a New Path
Under the guidance of Wisconsin United's coach, Bryan Johnikin, Haliburton began to develop the distinctive shot that would later become his trademark. During a practice session, Johnikin used his 3-year-old grandson as a defender to highlight Haliburton's low release point. This unorthodox method was crucial in refining the form that is now instantly recognizable on the court.
The shot begins with the ball positioned in front of Haliburton's chest and follows a catapult-like motion that generates significant sidespin. While unconventional, it's a highly effective technique. "To the average fan, or anybody who plays, obviously it isn't textbook. But there's no denying how effective it is. It's straight cash, is the best way I can put it," says Pacers guard TJ McConnell.
Proving His Critics Wrong
Haliburton's shooting has been a consistent asset throughout his career. In six seasons between Iowa State and the NBA, he has shot below 40% from behind the arc only once. The lone exception was last season, when he rushed back from a hamstring injury, affecting his performance. At 6-foot-5 and 185 pounds, Haliburton's physical attributes complement his shooting prowess, making him a versatile and formidable player on the court.
Reflecting on his journey, Haliburton underscores the motivation that drives him. "Because I don't ever want to get back to a place like that," he says, referring to the difficult period after his departure from Playground Warriors. His determination to succeed has been a constant throughout his career, pushing him to overcome obstacles and setbacks.
On the Global Stage
Now, as an Olympian with Team USA, Haliburton's story has come full circle. The young player who once left an AAU team in tears is now representing his country on the world stage. "I left in tears because I was so embarrassed of what was going on," he recounts. Today, those tears have been replaced by a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Haliburton's journey from Oshkosh to the NBA and beyond serves as an inspiring tale of perseverance and hard work. His unique shooting style and unwavering determination have earned him a place among the elite in basketball, and his story continues to inspire young athletes facing their own challenges.