Tyrese Haliburton Returns to 5-on-5 Basketball After Achilles Injury

Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton reached a major milestone in his recovery Wednesday, playing full-contact 5-on-5 basketball for the first time since suffering a devastating Achilles injury.

The two-time All-Star tore his Achilles during Game 7 of the NBA Finals last June. He announced his return to scrimmage play on X, marking a key step in what is typically a long recovery process.

Achilles injuries are among the most serious in basketball, often requiring 9-12 months of rehabilitation. The injury ended Haliburton's breakout season that saw him lead the Pacers to their first Finals appearance in over a decade.

Haliburton emerged as one of the NBA's top young stars before the injury, averaging over 20 points and 10 assists per game. His playmaking ability was crucial to the Pacers' surprising playoff run.

The 24-year-old guard still faces more rehabilitation before returning to game action. But playing 5-on-5 basketball shows his Achilles can handle the cutting and jumping required for NBA competition.