Tyrese Haliburton receives a big boost ahead of Pacers showdown with the Knicks

As the Indiana Pacers gear up for a critical Game 4 against the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals, star guard Tyrese Haliburton is set to receive an emotional lift — his father, John Haliburton, has been cleared to return to the arena following an eight-game ban.

The decision comes at a pivotal time for the Pacers, who are aiming to reclaim control of the series after letting a 20-point lead slip away in Game 3. Now, with momentum teetering and the Knicks surging, the presence of Haliburton’s father in the building could provide a much-needed spark for both the team and its young leader.

A family reunion with high stakes

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, John Haliburton will be allowed to attend Game 4 in a suite at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. This marks his first in-person appearance since he was banned from attending both home and away games due to an altercation involving Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo on April 29.

“Tyrese Haliburton’s father, John, will be allowed to attend Pacers home games in a suite beginning with Tuesday's pivotal Game 4 against the Knicks, sources tell ESPN,” Charania reported.

While John will be present in the arena, he will not be sitting courtside as he did during Game 5 of the first-round series. Instead, he will watch from a suite, signaling a cautious yet significant step forward after a highly publicized incident.

The Giannis incident and the apology

The ban was imposed after a confrontation between John Haliburton and Antetokounmpo. During a heated Game 5 against the Bucks, John approached Giannis, waving a towel and shouting profanities — an act that many deemed “disrespectful.” The situation nearly escalated as the two came face-to-face before being separated by team security.

Antetokounmpo later downplayed the episode, saying, “We’re in a good place,” during his postgame remarks. John Haliburton also issued a public apology, stating, “I sincerely apologize to Giannis, the Milwaukee Bucks and the Pacers organization for my actions following tonight's game. This was not a good reflection on our sport or my son and I will not make that mistake again.”

Emotional momentum for the Pacers

For Tyrese Haliburton, having his father back in the building couldn’t come at a better time. The Pacers, despite an impressive start in Game 3, saw the Knicks claw their way back and steal a win, cutting Indiana’s series lead.

With the pressure mounting and every possession growing in importance, the emotional lift from having his father in the building — even from a suite — could elevate Haliburton’s performance and focus.

Though John Haliburton will remain barred from road games for the rest of the postseason, his reappearance at home games represents more than just a family reunion — it symbolizes resilience, accountability, and renewed support at a crucial juncture in the playoffs.