Pacers' Tyrese Haliburton makes first statement since Achilles injury

“Man. Don’t know how to explain it other than shock,” he wrote. “Words cannot express the pain of this letdown. The frustration is unfathomable. I’ve worked my whole life to get to this moment and this is how it ends? Makes no sense.”

The Pacers entered the playoffs as the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference before catching fire on their way to the franchise’s first Finals appearance in 25 years — and second ever.

“At 25, I’ve already learned that God never gives us more than we can handle,” Haliburton continued. “I know I’ll come out on the other side of this a better man and a better player. And honestly, right now, torn Achilles and all, I don’t regret it. I’d do it again, and again after that, to fight for this city and my brothers. For the chance to do something special.

“Indy, I’m sorry. If any fan base doesn’t deserve this, it’s y’all. But together we are going to fight like hell to get back to this very spot, and get over this hurdle. I don’t doubt for a second that y’all have my back, and I hope you guys know that I have yours.

“I think (Kobe Bryant) said it best when in this same situation. ‘There are far greater issues/challenges in the world than a torn Achilles. Stop feeling sorry for yourself, find the silver lining and get to work with the same belief, same drive and same conviction as ever.’ And that’s exactly right. I will do everything in my power to get back right.”