The Indiana Pacers opened their 2025-26 season with a Finals rematch against the Oklahoma City Thunder today with excitement and caution. Pacers fans filled Grainbridge Fieldhouse, eager to see their team back in action after a long offseason, but one absence cannot be ignored. Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana’s star point guard, remains sidelined with the Achilles injury he suffered in Game 7 last season. His presence was a reminder of the challenges waiting for the Pacers as they try to find direction without their floor general.

During the game, Haliburton was interviewed, and he offered a glimpse into his rehab. “Yeah, it’s going well. I started running and jumping, doing all the little things like a week ago, so, uh, it’s the small wins right now, and I’ll take all of them,” he shared during the midgame interview. His words carried a sense of progress worth celebrating, even if improvements are incremental.

Beyond rehab, Haliburton also expressed excitement at the return to the Pacers‘ home arena to engage with fans. “It’s been fun, man. It’s been fun to be back here… it’s been like four months, so… it’s been good to get in front of these fans again, play basketball, so I’m excited for our group,”  He said, his voice filled with enthusiasm. For a player sidelined by injury, moments like this are important milestones, reminding him and the team of the fans who stand behind them.

Leadership for Haliburton goes beyond recovery. He was asked about how his teammates are adjusting without him, and he highlighted the team’s resilient nature. “I think you’re doing a good job of building a great culture here… it doesn’t matter who goes down as the next man up, and it’s always been that way,” he noted.

His perspective highlights his role as a vocal leader on this Pacers squad, even if he’s not able to directly affect the game. His confidence in the team’s depth helps reassure fans that the system Indiana has in place will keep them competitive.

The Pacers’ “next man up” philosophy will be tested in this early part of the season, with matchups against the Grizzlies, Timberwolves, and Mavericks up next.

Indiana Pacers Fall to Oklahoma City Thunder in Season Opener

The Indiana Pacers fought hard in their season opener, but ultimately fell 141-135 to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a thrilling double-overtime matchup which kept fans on the edge of their seats. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stood out, leading the Thunder with 51 points, including a staggering 19 attempted free throws, of which he converted 16 along with 8 rebounds and 5 assists.

Pascal Siakam and Bennedict Mathurin, who scored 32 and 36 points respectively, but Indiana lost to OKC’s firepower down the stretch.

With the Pacers trailing by just two points in the second overtime, Walker’s turnover proved to be a critical mistake. The Thunder capitalized on the possession with a three-pointer from Aaron Wiggins that effectively sealed the victory.

Without Haliburton running the offense, the Pacers started Andrew Nembhard at point guard, who was contained by the Thunder’s stifling defense before being forced to leave the game with an unfortunate injury. Afterwards, with no available point guards, Indiana relied heavily upon isolation opportunities for Siakam and Mathurin who held their own against OKC.

Indiana demonstrated effort, resilience, and cohesion, all vital qualities for them as they look to build upon their 2024-25 season.

Against Memphis, Indiana will have to hope that TJ McConnell is back, or they’ll be forced to run their offense without a lead guard once again. Despite a formidable wing rotation, the team will have to play-make by committee if they wish to replicate the offensive impact of McConnell, Haliburton or even Nembhard.