The Indiana Pacers got the 119-118 win over the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 5 of the NBA Playoffs on Tuesday night.
Tyrese Haliburton’s overtime game-winner gave the Pacers victory in the game and the series, 4-1.
However, tensions boiled over after the game in several ways. The most notable incident involved John Haliburton, Tyrese’s dad, and Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The two got into a heated exchange in what was a rowdy scene in Indianapolis. Afterward, John Haliburton issued an apology on X.
“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.”
It was an unfortunate ending to a thrilling win by the Pacers, and John Haliburton’s actions had fans calling for the NBA to ban him for the rest of the playoffs.
“John should be barred from the arena for a few games,” one fan said.
“Halliburton’s dad caused a fight by stepping onto the court after the game as a fan. Treat him like any other spectator. Banned from nba games for life,” another stated.
“Evidence of Mr. Haliburton “doing too much.” In this video. The NBA should not allow him to sit courtside the rest of the playoffs. Do all that from a suite. It’s a bad look for the Pacers and the league. Takes away from a great game and comeback,” another wrote with a long video.
Evidence of Mr. Haliburton “doing too much.” In this video.
The NBA should not allow him to sit courtside the rest of the playoffs. Do all that from a suite. It’s a bad look for the Pacers and the league. Takes away from a great game and comeback. pic.twitter.com/LhpZ9fNStr
— Coach Bryan (@DrB365) April 30, 2025
ESPN’s Myron Medcalf also had a similar thought: “I’ve met Haliburton’s dad. Had good interactions with him. But you gotta treat him like a regular fan who crossed the line. Should be banned from attending the rest of the playoffs. Bottom line. Kick him out.”
It’s quite the response and fallout from the incident, and it remains to be seen whether or not the NBA – and Commissioner Adam Silver – step in and hand Haliburton any sort of disciplinary action.
For now, the Pacers are moving on to face the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Bucks are headed home in an offseason that will be full of plenty of questions.
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