Haliburton responds to dad not attending Pacers games for ‘foreseeable future’

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — As the Pacers continue their playoff run in Cleveland this weekend, there will be a noticeable absence courtside among the Indiana fans.

Pacers All Star Tyrese Haliburton’s father John — an ever-enthusiastic fans recognized by many — will not be in attendance at Rocket Arena for the first or second games of the second round series. After confronting Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo on the court following the Pacers’ Game 5 and series-clinching win in overtime Tuesday, Haliburton’s father agreed to not attend home or away games “for the foreseeable future.”

The Pacers point guard talked about the decision to local media for the first time Friday.

“I understand the decision made by our organization and the league,” Haliburton said. “I’ve spoken on it many times – that my father was in the wrong – but at the end of the day, he’s my dad, so I’m not going to ridicule him by any means.”

“I’ve got a lot of love for him. I love him dearly,” Haliburton continued. “He’s going to sit at home and watch the game. He’ll be just fine. We talk every day, and it’s going to be totally fine.”

John regularly sits on the baseline at Gainbridge Fieldhouse during home games with Tyrese’s mother and girlfriend. He’s known for emphatically cheering on the team throughout the season.

“Growing up, I think every other kid if your dad claps too loud as a choir concert or whatever the case may be, you might be a little embarrassed. I think that’s what it was at one point in my life, but I’ve gotten to the point now where my dad is who he is, and I love him for who he is and so does everybody who knows him,” Haliburton said. “This is just one thing, and we’re not defined by one thing that happens in our lives. We all make mistakes. You know, we move on.”

Haliburton laughed adding that he’s sure he’ll still hear from his father throughout the game.

“I’m sure I’ll be getting texts at halftime and calls after the game.”

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