Tyrese Haliburton criticizes NBA decision on return game broadcast

Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton expressed shock after learning his first game back from a major injury will not be broadcast on national television. Haliburton missed the entire 2025-26 season following a torn Achilles tendon suffered during Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals.

His return is scheduled for October 21 against the New Orleans Pelicans. While the NBA's national television slots for opening night are reserved for the Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Miami Heat and the Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers, Haliburton's comeback will be a local broadcast only.

Speaking on the “Numbers on the Board” podcast, Haliburton questioned the decision, suggesting that a player of his caliber returning from a 16-month absence would typically merit national coverage. The Pacers will play their first home game on October 23 against the Dallas Mavericks, with their first nationally televised matchup scheduled for October 28 against the Philadelphia 76ers.