Tyrese Haliburton Returned to Action With Eastbay Dunk
The Pacers star demonstrated his recovery from a 2025 ACL tear with an impressive display during a recent workout.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Basketball
Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton showcased his return to form by successfully executing an Eastbay dunk during an offseason workout. The All-Star guard missed the entire 2025-26 season while rehabbing from an ACL injury sustained during the 2025 NBA Finals.
Why it matters
Haliburton aimed to prove his physical health and athleticism have fully recovered following a long absence from the court. His ability to perform the complex maneuver serves as a significant indicator of his readiness for the upcoming competitive season.
In his last active season, Haliburton averaged 18.6 points, 9.2 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. Following his ACL injury in the 2025 NBA Finals, the Pacers concluded their 2025-26 campaign with a 19-63 record.
The players
Tyrese Haliburton
He is an Indiana Pacers star guard who last played during the 2024-25 season.
Indiana Pacers
The Indianapolis-based professional basketball team finished the 2025-26 season with a 19-63 record.
Oklahoma City Thunder
They are the professional team that defeated the Pacers in seven games during the 2025 NBA Finals.
New Orleans Pelicans
They are the scheduled opponent for the Pacers in the upcoming game on October 21.
The details
The Eastbay dunk requires a player to jump, pass the ball between their legs mid-air, and complete the slam. Haliburton wanted to show he could handle the high-impact movement after an ACL tear forced him to sit out the entire 2025-26 season.
Timeline
J.R. Rider first popularized the Eastbay dunk during the 1994 All-Star Game.
Tyrese Haliburton tore his ACL during the 2025 NBA Finals.
Jaxson Hayes performed an Eastbay dunk during a game in January 2026.
Haliburton spoke about his workout performance on September 21, 2026.
The Pacers guard is scheduled to return against the New Orleans Pelicans on October 21, 2026.
Season Trajectory
Haliburton's return significantly shifts the Pacers' outlook following a difficult 19-63 season where the team struggled without their primary playmaker. His successful recovery helps bolster the team's competitiveness as they look to move past the 2025 NBA Finals defeat.
With Haliburton back, the Pacers' primary rotation and offensive sets will shift significantly compared to the 2025-26 lineup. Fantasy managers and fans should adjust expectations for team scoring production following his career-high 9.2 assists per game average.
The takeaway
Haliburton's return suggests a major boost for the Pacers' offensive rhythm after a season of rebuilding. Fans should anticipate a potential increase in team win totals as the roster reintegrates their star guard into the primary lineup.
What happens next
Tyrese Haliburton is confirmed to return to active play for the Indiana Pacers on October 21, 2026, against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Further reading
For more on the current outlook for the team, see the latest updates on Indianapolis Basketball.
