For fans of the New York Knicks, the name Tyrese Haliburton evokes strong feelings. He was the player who eliminated the team in both the 2024 playoffs and the Eastern Conference Finals the following year.
In the 2025 NBA Finals, Haliburton suffered a torn Achilles in Game 7, causing him to miss the entire following season. During his absence, the Knicks ended a more than 50-year title drought by defeating the Spurs.
In an interview with host Speedy Morman on Boardroom Talks, Haliburton expressed his initial reaction to the Knicks’ victory.
“When the Knicks won, I thought to myself, ‘I gotta turn this [expletive] off.’ I can’t watch it,”
Haliburton explained that although he typically watches Finals celebrations, this one felt different for him. Despite his discomfort, he ultimately decided to watch with his wife, Jade, and friends.
Reflecting on seeing Jalen Brunson celebrate with his wife, Ali, who are friends with Haliburton and his wife, he stated:
“You know what, leave it on. Let me watch it. And to see Jalen celebrate with Ali, his wife… me and my wife are friends with them. I was like, that’s awesome to see,” Haliburton shared.
He appreciated moments such as seeing Josh Hart with his twins and Karl-Anthony Towns with Jordyn Woods, but acknowledged the competitive nature of their rivalry.
“Are they our rivals? Yes… We hate each other when we’re playing, but after that, it’s love,” Haliburton remarked.
He openly spoke about his conflicting emotions: joy for friends, anger over the rivalry, and sadness for missing the competition.
Looking forward, Haliburton emphasized his eagerness to return, with Indiana anticipating his full health for the season start.
The Knicks’ season opener against the 76ers on October 20 marks a continuation of their fierce rivalry.