Tyrese Haliburton Jokingly Blames Stephen Curry For His Recent Shooting Slump

Tyrese Haliburton’s recent shooting slump has been an unexpected hiccup for the Indiana Pacers’ rising star, who’s known for his sharpshooting. In a lighthearted interview after a tough game, Haliburton humorously shifted the blame to none other than the Greatest Shooter of All Time, Stephen Curry. After spending time with Curry on the U.S. Olympic team, Haliburton sought the two-time MVP’s insights into pregame routines, and Curry advised him to try pregame naps—an experiment Haliburton is now ready to abandon.

"Honestly speaking, I'm probably going to blame Steph. He convinced me to try out pregame naps because I told him I don't nap, and he told me to try it out and text him after the game and see the result. So, he'll be getting a text from me shortly. No more pregame naps for Tyrese."

This lighthearted take highlights Haliburton's easy-going personality even amid struggles, as he tries to reset and get his shot back. Haliburton’s rough start is evident in his numbers. He’s currently averaging 12.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists while shooting a low 31.8% from the field and just 20.0% from beyond the arc. 

In a recent game against the Knicks, he went scoreless, shooting 0-for-8 from the field and 0-for-7 from three-point range—a rare sight for the typically efficient guard. Though his shooting has been cold, Haliburton’s resilience and sense of humor indicate he’s far from concerned. He’s confident he’ll bounce back and is using every tool, from off-day workouts to positive reinforcement, to regain his usual rhythm.

The bond Haliburton built with Curry over the summer with Team USA has had its influences, both positive and experimental. Curry’s advice wasn’t just about naps but covered an entire approach to the game—maintaining composure, focusing on recovery, and building consistency. Though Haliburton’s foray into pregame naps didn’t pan out, the camaraderie with Curry provided him a broader view on pregame preparation. While the advice on naps didn’t work out, it reflects Haliburton’s openness to new methods in fine-tuning his game.

The rocky start hasn’t shaken Haliburton’s confidence. He’s optimistic and focused on making a comeback soon. He’s planned extra shooting sessions on off days, believing that repetition and a reset will bring him back to his usual form. In his latest performance against the Sixers, he showed glimpses of resurgence with a solid 22 points on 4-for-9 shooting from deep, proving he’s still got the touch.

Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle is fully supportive, knowing Haliburton’s potential and ability to recalibrate quickly. Carlisle emphasized Haliburton’s dedication and calm, highlighting his approach to the slump as mature and forward-thinking. With teammates and coaches backing him, Haliburton is positioned well to turn things around swiftly.

As Haliburton focuses on the fundamentals to break out of his slump, his lighthearted blame on Curry adds a comedic touch to a typically stressful period for any player. The young guard understands that slumps happen, but it’s the adjustments and resilience that define the trajectory. 

Haliburton’s easygoing nature and confidence in his shooting make it clear that he won’t let a few tough games dictate his season. After all, even the best shooters have off nights, and Haliburton’s positive outlook and focus are the right ingredients to get him back on track.