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[Saba Sports News] Oklahoma City Thunder fans are getting a laugh at John Haliburton’s expense — all in good fun.
Following the Thunder’s 120-109 win over the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Finals, a video surfaced showing a light-hearted exchange between fans and the father of Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton. The win gave OKC a 3-2 lead in the series, and celebrations were in full swing outside Paycom Center in Oklahoma City.
In the now-viral clip, John Haliburton — sporting his son’s jersey — is seen outside the arena being playfully trolled by a group of Thunder fans. Rather than get upset, Haliburton smiled, exchanged a few friendly words, and walked away with a grin before things escalated. The interaction was more good-natured than hostile, especially given the emotional stakes of the Finals.
John Haliburton has had a rollercoaster postseason. He was briefly banned from attending Pacers games after an altercation with Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo during the first round. He also had a tense run-in with opposing fans earlier in the playoffs.
However, he was reinstated during the Eastern Conference Finals and has since been traveling to road games, including the Finals in OKC. With his son Tyrese dealing with a nagging calf injury and the Pacers on the brink, it’s unclear how much more John will have to smile about — but for now, he’s taking the trolling in stride.