John Haliburton to Miss Pacers-Cavs Games Following Giannis Confrontation

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Following a postgame confrontation with Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, John Haliburton, father of Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton, will not attend upcoming games against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Pacers announced this decision on Thursday after John Haliburton ran onto the court and confronted Antetokounmpo on Tuesday night.

In a statement, the elder Haliburton expressed regret for his actions. “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,” he posted on social media early Wednesday.

The confrontation occurred moments after Tyrese Haliburton hit a last-second layup, leading the Pacers to a 119-118 victory and a 4-1 series defeat of the Bucks in the opening round of the NBA playoffs. Tyrese Haliburton acknowledged his father’s excitement but emphasized the need for restraint. “I think he just got excited and saw his son make a game-winner. We had a conversation. He needs to just allow me to play basketball and stay over there,” he said.

As the Pacers prepare for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Cavaliers at 6 p.m. on Sunday, both Antetokounmpo and Haliburton discussed the incident. Antetokounmpo called John’s actions “very, very disrespectful,” mistaking him initially for a random fan. The situation escalated to a postgame altercation that required intervention from players.

This marks the second consecutive season the Pacers have eliminated the Bucks in the first round, with Haliburton playing a key role in both victories. Despite his father’s absence during games, Tyrese Haliburton noted, “He’s going to sit at home and watch the game, and he’ll be just fine. We talk every day; it’s going to be totally fine.” As excitement builds for the upcoming series, it’s clear the Pacers are focused on their next challenge.