Forget the players for a second. There’s one courtside figure turning heads and raising eyebrows in this Pacers-Thunder Finals. Tyrese Haliburton’s dad isn’t your average fan. He’s been a one-man hype machine this postseason, known not just for his fiery cheers but for pushing NBA patience to the brink. So much so that the league had to set boundaries on his courtside antics during earlier rounds.

Reports surfaced that his behavior during the earlier playoff rounds caused security headaches and distracted players (uhm, Giannis Antetokounmpo) and officials alike. The league, notorious for policing sideline conduct, decided his brand of hype crossed a line—think intense yelling, fist-pumping, and full-on emotional eruptions that made even the referees raise eyebrows. When you’re banned for being too passionate, you know you’re operating on another level.

And then came Game 1. Just before tipoff, Pops dearest told ESPN’s Marc Spears, “You heard it from me first, tonight is ours.” Bold words, yes. But after everything, it wasn’t just talk, but a promise. A promise that Tyrese Haliburton kept, proved, and wiped the OKC’s Game 1 ground with.

So, when you see him jumping and yelling with Tyrese Haliburton after that clutch 111-110 win, remember this man wasn’t supposed to be there. The league tried to mute him, but he came through anyway, proving some passion just can’t be contained. And so, Tyrese played like a man on a mission, leading the team with a fire that could be felt throughout the arena. The energy his dad brought seemed to ignite something special in Haliburton, setting the tone for a game that had everyone buzzing.

Thunder tried, but they couldn’t tame Tyrese in NBA Finals Game 1

Tyrese Haliburton showed early and loud why he’s the Pacers’ secret weapon the Thunder just can’t figure out. That Game 1 wasn’t just a close win, but a statement. With his dad’s pre-game promise still echoing in his ears, Tyrese delivered clutch plays, fiery leadership, and that unmistakable calm under pressure that separates stars from role players. You don’t just see a guy score points — you watch an All-NBA, almost MVP player seize the moment like he’s been here before.

Now, don’t get it twisted, the Pacers’ victory wasn’t a one-man show. But Tyrese’s impact was undeniable. He managed 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists. With each assist and smart decision, he chipped away at Oklahoma City’s hopes, showing a level of maturity that’s rare for a young guard in his first Finals. Well, guess some players just can’t be tamed. They’re made to run free and prove why they are leading the team in the first place.

For the Thunder, though, this loss stings more than the box score shows. They came into the series believing their explosive offense, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with 38 points in 39:34 minutes, could overwhelm Indiana. But Tyrese’s presence disrupted that narrative. His steady control forced the Thunder to rethink their defensive schemes and scramble on rotations. And while Shai put up his usual magic, the Thunder lacked that extra edge to close the door with just 1 point. This game exposed cracks in their armour, particularly when it comes to containing fiery young stars who play with the kind of focus and hunger Tyrese displayed.

While Pacers vs. Thunder might feel fresh for the Finals, these two have been throwing haymakers all season long. They split their four regular-season games like an old-school rivalry—each snagging two wins. The Pacers’ defense kept messing with OKC’s groove, while the Thunder’s tough, physical style gave Indiana fits. So yeah, this isn’t some random matchup. It’s a back-and-forth showdown that’s been brewing all year. If those games taught us anything, it’s that this Finals series is gonna be a full-on chess match with some serious smack talk and adjustments.

And with Pops now courtside, bringing that wild energy and all the hype the Pacers can handle, things just got a whole lot more interesting. The Thunder better buckle up because this series isn’t just about the players on the floor anymore. It’s about the whole vibe. When Tyrese Haliburton’s dad is front and center, you know the noise level and the stakes are only going up from here. Game 2 can’t come soon enough.