Haliburton Declares Full Health, Discusses Pacers' Offseason Moves
Source: SI NBA. Casualplayhub News adds summary, context, and editorial framing while linking back to the original report.
Tyrese Haliburton rarely steps in front of the microphones in the middle of August, but on Wednesday, the Indiana Pacers star made an exception. With training camp just around the corner, he had plenty to share — from a reassuring health update to his honest take on the team's offseason moves.
“I saw a report that was like, ‘sources tell me Tyrese will be healthy’… I am the source,” Haliburton said with a laugh. “I am healthy right now. I feel great. Playing pickup pretty regularly at this point. So, I feel great. I will be ready for the season. If the season was today, I’d be ready. It can’t come fast enough.”
The All-Star guard also offered a glimpse into his personal life. When asked about married life with Jade after tying the knot a few weeks ago, he responded, “It’s been all good so far. Nothing has really changed since we’ve been living together since I was like 19.” He described the wedding as a special moment, noting that every teammate, the entire coaching staff, and much of the organization attended. “Really special moment for me and very thankful for them being there,” he added.
Haliburton then turned his attention to the roster. The Pacers brought in Kelly Oubre Jr. and Larry Nance Jr. during the offseason, and Haliburton made it clear he sees significant value in both. “I think he adds a lot to us on both sides of the ball, but specifically defensively,” he said of Oubre. “Being able to take on different challenges. Our league and our conference is very wing heavy, it was before with Boston but now especially with Philadelphia, you’re gonna need multiple guys to throw at these good players and I think Kelly fits right in with that group.”
Haliburton revealed that he already knows Oubre through their shared summer workouts with trainer Drew Hanlen. “Kelly’s a guy I got to know through working with Drew Hanlen in the summer. We’ve had a few workouts together, lifted together. He’s a guy that’s definitely been annoying for me to go against throughout my career so I’m excited for him to be on our side.”
Regarding Nance, Haliburton highlighted the veteran’s longevity. “Bringing in a guy like Larry whose been in the league for a long time. I think he’s really going to be able to help with our frontcourt depth.”
The primary reason for the media session, however, was the return of the Indiana Pacers Charity Softball Game. Haliburton is headlining the revived event, and he explained his motivation. “It’s just fun,” he told Tony East of Circle City Spin. “Obviously, I know the history of the event and the last time it was had and what came with it, so create more positive memories behind it. I was not here during that time, but being friends with McAfee and those guys, he had a lot of positive stories about that event and I want to be able to create that for a new generation of fans. I’m really looking forward to it.”
Haliburton also noted that he had discussed bringing the game back when he signed his extension with the Pacers, but two deep playoff runs in 2024 and 2025 delayed the revival until this offseason. He sees the event as a way to unite the city. “I think it’s another opportunity to bring the city together,” he said. “We’re not the only team here. Bringing the Colts in, and the Fever are playing amazing right now, so being able to get some of them there [even though] I know they will not play, but just them being there means everything. Along with some of the ladies from the Ignite, the volleyball team. I know Mike Epps is going to play and the rosters are far from finalized, but it’s going to be fun.”
Tickets for the charity softball game, which takes place on August 24, remain available for just $10 for general admission. The event will feature Haliburton, New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, former NFL punter Pat McAfee, and several other athletes and celebrities.
This report was written by Alex Golden, host of the Setting The Pace podcast and a credentialed media member since 2023.
Article commentary
Tyrese Haliburton's mid-August media availability provided a rare window into the mindset of the Pacers' franchise cornerstone as the team prepares for the upcoming season. His declaration of full health is the most critical takeaway for Indiana. After dealing with injury concerns in recent years, Haliburton's assurance that he is playing pickup regularly and would be ready if the season started today should alleviate any lingering anxiety among fans and front office alike. The Pacers' success hinges on his availability and peak performance, especially given his role as the engine of their offense. Haliburton's comments on the offseason additions of Kelly Oubre Jr. and Larry Nance Jr. reveal a player who is deeply engaged in roster construction. His specific praise for Oubre's defensive versatility speaks to a broader strategic need: the Eastern Conference is increasingly loaded with elite wings, from Boston's Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to Philadelphia's newly acquired Paul George. Indiana's ability to throw multiple defenders at those players will be crucial, and Oubre, known for his length and energy, fits that need. Nance, meanwhile, provides veteran savvy and frontcourt depth that could allow the Pacers to experiment with different lineups, especially if they want to play small or protect the rim when Myles Turner rests. The revival of the charity softball game is more than a feel-good event. It signals Haliburton's commitment to embedding himself in the Indianapolis community. By bringing in stars from other local teams — the Colts, Fever, and Ignite — he is fostering a cross-sport camaraderie that can strengthen the city's sports identity. The affordable $10 ticket price ensures accessibility, and the involvement of personalities like Pat McAfee and Mike Epps adds a layer of entertainment that transcends basketball. From a competitive standpoint, the Pacers have quietly improved their roster after back-to-back deep playoff runs in 2024 and 2025. Adding Oubre and Nance addresses specific weaknesses: perimeter defense and frontcourt depth. However, the team still faces a daunting challenge in the East, where the Celtics remain the favorites and the 76ers have reloaded. Haliburton's health, combined with the continued development of young players like Bennedict Mathurin and Jarace Walker, will determine whether Indiana can take the next step. One subtle but telling detail from Haliburton's session was his mention of the wedding being attended by every teammate and the entire coaching staff. That speaks to the strong culture within the Pacers organization. Chemistry is often an underrated factor in postseason success, and Haliburton's leadership — both on and off the court — appears to be fostering a cohesive unit. Looking ahead, the Pacers are in a window of contention. Haliburton is entering his prime, the supporting cast is solid, and the front office has shown a willingness to make aggressive moves. The charity softball game on August 24 will be a lighthearted precursor to the serious work that begins in training camp. If Haliburton's health holds, Indiana could once again be a factor in the Eastern Conference playoffs.