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Monte Morris’ 2020 message to Tyrese Haliburton stands out after he signs for Indiana Pacers
Credit: Christian Petersen/Maddie Meyer via Getty Images

The Indiana Pacers are set for a quiet 2025-26 season following the impressive 2025 NBA Finals run.

The biggest reason behind the Indiana Pacers taking it slow is because of Tyrese Haliburton’s extended absence.

After all, Haliburton suffered a torn Achilles tendon injury during the 2025 NBA Finals. Additionally, the Pacers also lost Myles Turner to the Milwaukee Bucks in the offseason.

With a rough season awaiting the Pacers, the organization decided to bolster its depth at the point guard position with the addition of Monte Morris.

Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

Monte Morris’ terrific message to Tyrese Haliburton in 2020

According to NBA insider Shams Charania, Morris has finalized a deal with the Pacers ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season.

Morris, 30, will likely love sharing the locker room with Haliburton. After all, he made an early prediction about Haliburton in 2020.

“Man, it’s so crazy, two years ago. We were at Sukup talking about the NBA & you said I’ll be there soon. Amazing talent, proud of you, brother it’s only the beginning for you,” Morris tweeted.

At the time of the tweet, Haliburton was in the rookie year of his career. He was selected as the 12th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Sacramento Kings.

However, the Kings made a blunder by trading Haliburton during his sophomore year, as the former lottery pick has elevated the Pacers to a contender status in the Eastern Conference.

Monte Morris’ NBA career stats

Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images

Coming back to Morris’ arrival in Indiana, the 30-year-old guard will likely stay on the bench for the franchise.

After all, Morris’ career averages of 9.5 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game are perfect for a role player.

At this point in his career, Morris is searching for a stable role on a team, as the Pacers will be his fifth team in the last five years.

Morris spent the 2024-25 NBA season with the Phoenix Suns, putting up 5.2 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game for the franchise off the bench.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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