Haliburton hopes to repair Lillard relationship as both return to the court

Tyrese Haliburton wants to repair his relationship with Damian Lillard, saying the celebration he borrowed during the 2023 In-Season Tournament became more damaging than he intended.

Speaking on Thursday’s edition of The Zach Lowe Show, the Pacers guard recalled that Lillard had checked on him early in his career, particularly after Sacramento traded him to Indiana. Haliburton now hopes the two can talk and become cordial again.

The moment came late in Indiana’s semifinal victory over Milwaukee in the inaugural tournament. After a big three-pointer, Haliburton pointed toward his wrist, imitating Lillard’s familiar Dame Time gesture.

Haliburton accepted responsibility for letting the moment become personal. In Nat Newell’s report for the Indianapolis Star, he also explained that admiration for Lillard was part of why he chose No. 0. He enjoyed the tournament run, but regrets what happened to their relationship.

The comments arrive during a week of returns for both guards. Each missed last season following an Achilles tear during the 2025 playoffs, and both played preseason basketball this week.

In an NBA interview around his return Wednesday at Iowa State, Haliburton described recovery as emotionally difficult and said it had changed his perspective on life.

ESPN reported that Haliburton previously missed a chance to speak with Lillard in Portland after developing shingles. The Pacers are scheduled to host the Trail Blazers on December 17, giving the guards another possible opportunity to reconnect.