BREAKING NEWS: Indiana Pacers National Basketball Star Point guard Tyrese Haliburton has shocked the National Basketball Association (NBA) world with a selfless act that transcends the game of NBA Upon signing his NBA contract, Tyrese Haliburton make a bold and compassionate decision to donate his entire $73.4 million signing bonus to…see more

In a heartfelt and history-making move, Indiana Pacers point guard Tyrese Haliburton has captured the admiration of the NBA world — not with a highlight play, but with a profound act of generosity.

Upon finalizing his latest NBA contract extension, Haliburton has announced he will donate the entirety of his $73.4 million signing bonus to causes that focus on mental health awareness, youth support services, and community revitalization projects in both his home state and underserved communities across the U.S.

“Basketball is what I do, but helping people is who I am,” Haliburton said at Friday morning’s press conference. “This isn’t about headlines — it’s about healing, helping, and creating hope.”

The Haliburton Impact Fund

The donation will be directed through the newly founded Haliburton Impact Fund, a philanthropic initiative that will partner with national and local organizations to:

• Expand access to free mental health care for youth and families, particularly in low-income neighborhoods.

• Launch community wellness centers in cities like Indianapolis, Oshkosh (his hometown in Wisconsin), and Sacramento.

• Support anti-violence and mentorship programs for at-risk youth.

• Fund college scholarships and trade school grants for high school seniors.

Sources close to Haliburton say he was deeply moved by the rise in youth mental health struggles in recent years and wanted to use his influence to break the stigma and increase access to care.

A First for the Franchise — And the League

Haliburton’s donation marks one of the largest individual charitable pledges in NBA history, and the largest ever from an Indiana Pacer.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver called the move “a groundbreaking moment of compassion and leadership,” while Pacers team president Kevin Pritchard praised Haliburton as “the heart and soul of this franchise — on and off the court.”

Former NBA star and mental health advocate DeMar DeRozan responded on X (formerly Twitter), saying:

“Salute to my brother Tyrese. This is how we change lives. Real one.”

Changing the Game — and Lives

Haliburton, 25, is coming off a career-best season, earning All-Star honors and leading the Pacers into deep playoff contention. But despite his rising stardom, he’s long been known for his humility, work ethic, and commitment to community.

Fans and fellow players are now praising him not just as an elite playmaker, but as a difference-maker beyond the hardwood.

“Tyrese is showing what true leadership looks like,” said longtime Pacers fan Darnell Simmons. “It’s not just about stats — it’s about standing up for people who need it most.”

Next Steps: Real-World Change

The Haliburton Impact Fund is expected to begin rolling out programs in early 2026, starting with mental health resource hubs in Indianapolis public schools and free therapy clinics in Milwaukee and Chicago.

In Haliburton’s own words:

“This league has blessed me. Now it’s time to be a blessing to others.”