Pacers ban Tyrese Haliburton’s father after taunting Giannis Antetokounmpo

Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton's father, John, got into an argument with Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo after Game 5.

Pacers ban Tyrese Haliburton’s father after taunting Giannis Antetokounmpo

Indiana Pacers ban Tyrese Haliburton's father, John, from games after taunting Giannis Antetokounmpo (Image via Firstsportz)

Giannis Antetokounmpo did not appreciate the way another postseason ended. His Milwaukee Bucks exited the first round and now have to rethink their strategy ahead of next season. But the conversation surrounding the ‘Greek Freak’ had more to do with the father of Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton than his own future.

Antetokounmpo was seen confronting John Haliburton, father of the Pacers star, after losing Game 5. It initially seemed as if the ‘Greek Freak’ was taking his frustrations out on the former women’s basketball coach.

But later, he revealed that the basketball referee came onto the court and disrespected the Bucks star. First, Tyrese Haliburton clarified that his father was wrong to do that, then senior Haliburton issued an apology.

However, when the situation was being discussed on sports networks, Stephen A. Smith revealed that many players and agents had complained about John Haliburton’s actions. It is just that it was coming to light after this incident.

Now the Pacers have taken a stand. As per ESPN Insider Shams Charania, the organization banned John Haliburton from appearing at any Pacers playoff game for the foreseeable future. It seems the organization does not want the fallout of this to impact their chances in the playoffs or attract negative publicity.

Charania also revealed that Haliburton Sr. understood the organization’s decision and accepted their choice. He knew he had gone too far, and now he will stay away until further notice. The Pacers have not provided a timeline for when they will allow him back into Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Pacers HC understands John Haliburton got caught up in the moment

Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle has observed how this situation between the father of his best player and an NBA champion has become such a topic. He knows media and fans are feeding off the frenzy, but also understands the human side of John Haliburton.

Tyrese Haliburton's father, John, has been a constant support in his basketball journey
Tyrese Haliburton’s father, John, has been a constant support in his basketball journey (Image via People)

We all love our children, we all embrace their great moments. He clearly was carried away by this moment and he assure everyone that nothing like this will ever happen again. I take him at his word on that. I’m very sorry that those events happened, and so is he.

Rick Carlisle said

Carlisle clarified to 107.5 The Fan that Haliburton Sr. has apologized and understands where he went wrong. He also knows that the former basketball coach was caught up in the moment. But Carlisle also understands how Giannis Antetokounmpo felt about the entire situation.

Tyrese Haliburton’s father will probably have to wait until this season is over to return to watch his son play. The Pacers are about to face the East-leading Cleveland Cavaliers in round 2. That series will decide if John Haliburton continues to watch his son from home.

Tyrese Haliburton and Pacers have tough task facing Cavs

Winning against the Milwaukee Bucks became easier once Damian Lillard went down with a season-ending injury. But against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Indiana Pacers will have no respite. They are the East’s best team for a reason, and Tyrese Haliburton and his teammates will have to chalk up the best plan of action.

The Cavs have a stellar starting lineup. Along with that, they have a deep bench. One player struggling will not impact them as much as it would to the Pacers. Haliburton stepped up against the Bucks. He will need to elevate his game another notch if they want to win against the Cavs.

Game 1 tips off on May 4th. The Pacers will not enjoy home-court advantage this time. To avoid facing an early deficit, the Indianapolis-based team will need to try and win at least one of the first two road games. Only then can they breathe easily to return home and try and win both games. Then they will hold the series lead in their hands, which is the only way to win against the Cavs.

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