Tyrese Haliburton addresses Lillard conflict and Knicks title

Indiana Pacers playmaker Tyrese Haliburton has expressed regret regarding a past conflict with Damian Lillard. During the 2025 NBA Cup semifinals, Haliburton mocked Lillard’s “Dame Time” gesture, leading to ongoing tension between the players. Haliburton admitted in a podcast that he regrets how the relationship developed, stating, “I think it is the thing I regret most in my career... I was younger and I was just having fun, but I overdid it.” Both players are returning to action following significant Achilles tendon injuries.

Additionally, Haliburton commented on the New York Knicks’ 2026 NBA championship victory. While expressing happiness for his friends on the Knicks roster, such as Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, Haliburton maintained a competitive stance, suggesting that if he had been healthy, the Pacers could have defeated them. He praised the Knicks' playoff run as “incredible” and “special.”