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[Saba Sports News] In a recent interview, Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton discussed various topics, including life, the NBA, and his role on Team USA. He also addressed the challenges of being a young player targeted by others in the league.
“The NBA is at an interesting point with top players like LeBron, KD, and Steph still dominating, but young guys like me are establishing ourselves,” Haliburton told GQ Sports. “Everyone’s gunning for different positions and statures. I get everyone’s best shot every night. The young guys are coming for me because they want what I have, and the older guys want to keep their dominance. It’s fun being in the middle.”
At 24, Haliburton has quickly become the face of the Indiana Pacers. Last season, he averaged 20.1 points, a league-leading 10.9 assists, and 1.2 steals per game, shooting 47%. His playmaking opened opportunities for teammates like Myles Turner and Buddy Hield. His impact helped the Pacers reach the final round of the inaugural in-season tournament.
Despite the Pacers making the Eastern Conference Finals last season, they still have much to prove. Haliburton has shown leadership and exceptional skills, but until he leads the Pacers to the Finals or wins a championship, he will be seen as an underdog. Critics question his shooting form and defensive abilities.
Haliburton aims to prove doubters wrong and live up to the hype. Even with the league’s best constantly targeting him, he has set himself apart from his peers, laying the foundation for a long and successful NBA career.