BREAKING: Tyrese Haliburton makes State of Origin confession as questions emerge around Gilgeous-Alexander..
In a revealing moment, Indiana Pacers’ star Tyrese Haliburton addressed the intense rivalry built between him and Thunder MVP Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander. Dubbed a “State of Origin confession,” Haliburton admitted that competition with SGA is something he values deeply—and it shows.
The backdrop: both players have been instrumental in forging two of the NBA’s top teams this season. Gilgeous‑Alexander led Oklahoma City to a league-best 62–12 record, claimed the scoring title, and was crowned Finals MVP after a franchise-first championship.
Haliburton, a two-time All‑Star and assist leader, guided Indiana to its first Finals appearance in 25 years.
Their rivalry heated up during the Finals. Before Game 1 tipped off, both players’ fathers shared a friendly courtside moment—underlining mutual respect amid fierce competition
But during the Game 7 celebration, SGA paused and left the court to console Haliburton, who had suffered a torn Achilles in just the seventh minute. Video later captured SGA entering Indiana’s locker room, laying his arm on Haliburton’s shoulder, offering comfort: “My heart dropped for him… I just felt so bad for him. Prayers go out to him for sure. Hell of a player,” SGA said.
That moment galvanized headlines—but Haliburton also publicly praised Gilgeous‑Alexander’s MVP credentials, making what some are calling his “State of Origin confession.” Following their regular-season matchup, Haliburton told reporters, “I grew up in an era where the best player on the best team wins MVP every time… I think you take away them having the best record, he would still be the MVP—and then you throw on the fact that he has the best record, he kind of makes it an easy decision.” He added that while he doesn’t cast votes, “if you took a player poll, I’m sure he would win” .
These comments sparked debate: are Haliburton’s remarks a tactical nod to league optics, or a genuine display of sportsmanship? Some NBA pundits gently suggest it’s both tactical and heartfelt—a reflection of mutual respect between two generational talents vying for supremacy in today’s NBA.
Meanwhile, SGA played down comparisons, stating the “face of the league” tag is a conversation for the public and media—not him .
Regardless, their rivalry is now synonymous with modern NBA excellence: competitive yet rooted in mutual regards.
