DEAL ACCEPTED: Indiana Pacers Basketball Point Guard Tyrese Haliburton Signs …

DEAL ACCEPTED: Indiana Pacers Point Guard Tyrese Haliburton Signs Max Contract Extension

Indianapolis, IN – July 7, 2025

In a move that cements the foundation of their franchise for years to come, the Indiana Pacers have officially signed All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton to a long-term extension. The deal, first reported early Monday morning, is a five-year maximum contract that could be worth up to $260 million with incentives — the richest in Pacers history.

Haliburton, 25, has quickly become the face of the franchise since arriving in Indiana via trade from the Sacramento Kings in 2022. Over the past three seasons, he has blossomed into one of the most dynamic and efficient playmakers in the NBA, earning two All-Star selections and leading the Pacers to the Eastern Conference Finals in the 2023–24 season.

The Pacers’ front office, led by President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard and General Manager Chad Buchanan, prioritized locking in Haliburton as the centerpiece of their long-term vision. The deal includes a designated rookie max extension clause, allowing Haliburton to earn up to 30% of the salary cap, with escalators based on performance — including All-NBA selections.

A Franchise Cornerstone

Haliburton’s impact on the Pacers has been nothing short of transformational. Known for his elite court vision, high basketball IQ, and leadership both on and off the floor, he averaged 20.1 points, 10.9 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game in the 2024–25 season. His shooting splits — 48% from the field, 40% from three, and 86% from the free-throw line — made him one of the most efficient high-usage players in the league.

“He’s not just our point guard — he’s our engine,” head coach Rick Carlisle said in a statement. “Tyrese brings a level of competitiveness, intelligence, and unselfishness that elevates everyone around him. This extension is well-deserved, and we’re thrilled to have him as the leader of our team.”

Haliburton also ranked among the league leaders in assists and was instrumental in Indiana’s top-5 rated offense, which emphasized pace, spacing, and ball movement — a system perfectly tailored to his style of play.

The Road to Stardom

Drafted 12th overall in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Sacramento Kings, Haliburton quickly gained a reputation as one of the most polished and mature rookies in his class. But it wasn’t until a blockbuster trade in February 2022 — which sent Haliburton and Buddy Hield to Indiana in exchange for All-Star big man Domantas Sabonis — that he truly had the chance to take the reins of a team.

Since then, Haliburton has steadily risen to become one of the league’s premier point guards. He earned his first All-Star nod in 2023 and followed it up with a stellar 2023–24 campaign that saw him lead the Pacers to their deepest playoff run in over a decade.

Off the court, Haliburton has become a fan favorite in Indiana for his humility, community involvement, and infectious enthusiasm for the game. He has spoken often about wanting to build something lasting in Indianapolis — a sentiment he reiterated during the signing announcement.

“I love being here,” Haliburton said. “From the fans to the coaching staff to my teammates, it’s felt like home from day one. I believe in what we’re building, and I’m committed to bringing a championship to this city.”

Setting Up the Future

With Haliburton now under contract through at least the 2029–30 season, the Pacers are in a strong position to build around their franchise player. Indiana’s young core — which includes Bennedict Mathurin, Jarace Walker, Andrew Nembhard, and Myles Turner — gives them one of the most promising rosters in the Eastern Conference.

The front office has also maintained financial flexibility, with several key players on team-friendly deals and future draft assets in hand. With Haliburton signed, Indiana can now focus on surrounding him with the right blend of talent to compete for a championship.

“This is more than just a contract — it’s a statement of belief,” said Pritchard. “We believe Tyrese is the kind of player you can build a championship team around. Today’s deal shows our commitment to that vision.”

League-Wide Impact

Haliburton’s extension continues a trend of rising young stars securing max deals early in their careers. For the Pacers, a small-market franchise that historically struggles to lure top-tier free agents, keeping Haliburton is a major win. It sends a message to the rest of the league that Indiana is not only a team on the rise, but one committed to building sustainably and competitively.

Around the league, executives praised the move, noting Haliburton’s maturity and leadership. “He’s the kind of player every team wants,” one Eastern Conference GM said. “Indiana’s lucky to have him — and they were smart to lock him up early.”

Final Thoughts

As the Pacers head into the 2025–26 season, expectations are higher than ever — and with good reason. Tyrese Haliburton is now officially the face of the franchise, and Indiana’s window for contention is wide open.

For Pacers fans, the message is clear: the future is now, and it’s built around No. 0.