Tyrese Haliburton Opens Up On Playing In The First Game 7 Of The Finals Since 2016

Ahead of Sunday's pivotal Game 7 matchup between the Pacers and Thunder, star guard Tyrese Haliburton shared his perspective going into the most important game of his career. This year marks the first time since 2016 that the Finals have gone to seven games, and Tyrese says he still remembers what it was like watching that epic showdown at 14 years old.

"That day, I don't necessarily remember," said Haliburton. "I remember what the game was like, the energy of the game, being with my friends, and watching it all together. There was a mixture of Cavs fans, a mixture of Warriors fans, but I think it's probably one of the greatest games I've ever been able to watch as a basketball fan. That's what makes Game 7 so fun, and I think that, especially for people around my age, that is the peak Game 7. So I'm excited to add to the story of history of Game 7s and add to the history of our game."

It's been nine years since a Game 7 in the Finals, and it was one for the ages. The series was between the Golden State Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers, and included superstars like LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, Stephen Curry, and Draymond Green. 

The Warriors, who had won 73 games in the regular season, were heavily favored to win, and it would have qualified for one of the greatest seasons of all time. After taking a 3-1 lead, the Warriors were seemingly a lock to win the title... until the Cavaliers strung together three straight wins to complete a miraculous comeback and win the series.

Game 7 was iconic, with over 31.02 million viewers dialed in to witness history. It was incredible basketball all around that involved two great teams and legendary players at the peak of their powers.

Like the rest of us, Haliburton was watching from home with friends and family, and he never imagined that he'd one day be in a similar position. After being drafted 12th overall in 2020 and being traded by the Kings, his career fell into a state of uncertainty.

Now, however, Hali is thriving as one of the best point guards in the league. In 73 games in the regular season, he averaged 18.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 9.2 assists per game on 47.3% shooting. In the playoffs, he's been even better as a leader and playmaker for his team, which is now just one win away from the championship.

With Game 7 set for Sunday, it's going to be a high-stakes battle with a lot of emotions and intensity. We can expect a passionate fight with a title on the line, and while it may not compare to the 2016 Finals, it will surely be must-watch TV for the fans.

As the underdogs from the beginning, Haliburton has already said his team is playing with house money, but it doesn't mean he wants to waste this precious opportunity. Even with an injury, he's going to give everything to get the win on Sunday and earn the respect he feels his team deserves.