Indiana Pacers Announce Tyrese Haliburton Statue to Be Unveiled Outside Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Honoring Franchise Star’s Loyalty, Leadership, and Impact On and Off the Court
By Jenna Williams | June 25, 2025
In a move that cements his legacy not only as a franchise cornerstone but also as a symbol of loyalty, leadership, and community, the Indiana Pacers have officially announced plans to unveil a statue of All-NBA guard Tyrese Haliburton outside Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The unveiling ceremony is set for October 15, 2025, ahead of the Pacers’ home opener of the 2025–26 season.
The statue will be the first ever erected for a current-era player in Pacers history and only the second in franchise history after Reggie Miller. But in the eyes of fans, teammates, and the broader Indianapolis community, Haliburton’s impact extends far beyond his on-court brilliance.
A Modern Legend in the Making
Since joining the Pacers via trade from the Sacramento Kings in 2022, Haliburton has rapidly become the face of the franchise. His unique blend of court vision, unselfish play, and charismatic leadership has sparked a basketball renaissance in Indiana. In his first full season, he earned his first All-Star selection. By 2024, he had led the team to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2014.
More than the stats—though they’re staggering: 21.4 points, 10.8 assists, 4 rebounds per game over the past three seasons—it’s Haliburton’s embodiment of what it means to represent Indiana that truly captured the heart of a state.
“Tyrese is the soul of this team,” said Pacers President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard at the press conference on Tuesday. “He chose us. He believed in this organization, in this city, and we’ve believed in him every step of the way.”
A Testament to Loyalty
In the modern NBA era, where player movement is rampant and superstars frequently change jerseys, Haliburton’s unwavering commitment to the Pacers has been both rare and refreshing. In 2023, he signed a five-year max extension without hesitation, famously stating, “I don’t want to build a superteam elsewhere—I want to build something real here.”
That quote will be etched into the base of the statue, according to the design committee.
Haliburton’s loyalty, especially in an age of fleeting allegiances, has made him a beloved figure among Pacers fans. When asked about the statue, Haliburton was visibly emotional.
“I’m honestly speechless,” he said. “This city gave me a chance to lead, to grow, and to become the best version of myself—on and off the court. I never imagined having a statue while still playing. It’s surreal, and it’s something I’ll never take for granted.”
Community First
Beyond basketball, Haliburton has been a transformative presence in the Indianapolis community. He launched the “Vision Indy” foundation in 2023, which has since funded more than 30 youth basketball courts across the state, created STEM and arts education programs for underserved schools, and partnered with local food banks to fight hunger.
“He’s not just a basketball player—he’s a change agent,” said Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett. “Tyrese has helped redefine what it means to be a role model. He connects. He listens. He shows up.”
Each summer, Haliburton hosts a week-long “Hoops & Hope” camp for kids ages 8–16, where he teaches fundamentals, life skills, and the importance of mental wellness.
“His message has always been about inclusion, empowerment, and positivity,” said Tamika Catchings, former WNBA star and community leader. “That’s why this statue is so much more than bronze. It’s a mirror of who he is inside.”
Design and Symbolism
The statue, which will be created by world-renowned sculptor Brian Hanlon, will capture Haliburton mid-pass, symbolizing both his style of play and his spirit of giving. One hand outstretched, eyes up, in his signature “see-it-before-it-happens” pose, the statue will stand nine feet tall and sit on a base engraved with milestones from his career and quotes from teammates and fans.
“I wanted the statue to feel like it was in motion,” said Hanlon. “Because Tyrese is always moving, always thinking ahead—not just on the court, but in how he uplifts others.”
The statue will be located at the southwest plaza of Gainbridge Fieldhouse, facing Georgia Street, in an area that will be renamed “Haliburton Square.” The space will also feature a digital exhibit chronicling his career highlights, charitable initiatives, and fan testimonials.
Legacy in Real Time
What makes this tribute so unique is its timing. Haliburton is only 25 years old and, by all indications, just entering his prime. With several playoff appearances already under his belt and a gold medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics, the accolades are piling up—but the story is still unfolding.
“We don’t need to wait until a player retires to honor their greatness,” said Pacers owner Herb Simon. “Tyrese has already given us so much, and he represents everything we want this franchise to be about.”
Indeed, the statue marks not an end but a continuation of a legacy in progress. Fans like Marlon Higgins, a 32-year-old season ticket holder, agree: “We get to walk by that statue every game and say, ‘That’s our guy. And he’s still here, still fighting for us.’”
A Future Built on Faith
With new teammates, a strengthened front office, and a deep roster, the Pacers are poised to contend for years to come. But even as banners are chased and rosters evolve, the centerpiece remains unchanged: Tyrese Haliburton, the kid from Oshkosh, Wisconsin, who made Indiana home.
“There’s no script for this,” Haliburton said, smiling as he looked out at a crowd of cheering fans. “But if I could write one, it would look a lot like this.”
The statue unveiling will be free to attend and include performances by local artists, a video tribute, and remarks from NBA legends, teammates, and members of the Indianapolis community. Fans are encouraged to arrive early, wear gold, and be part of what’s sure to be one of the most memorable nights in franchise history.
For Tyrese Haliburton, it’s another assist—a beautiful, lasting pass to a future that continues to inspire.
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