Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton told "The Zach Lowe Show" that he wishes his relationship with Damian Lillard could be repaired after he stole Lillard's "Dame Time" celebration during the 2023 in-season tournament. Haliburton hit a key 3-pointer against Lillard and the Milwaukee Bucks in the semifinal and mimicked Lillard's wrist-check, a move he now regrets damaging their bond.
"I think what I do regret more than anything is what me and Dame's relationship has become," Haliburton said, noting that Lillard checked on him early in his career, especially after his 2022 trade from the Kings to the Pacers. Haliburton said he missed an opportunity to reconnect when he didn't travel to Portland following a case of shingles.
Both players missed last season after torn Achilles injuries in the 2025 playoffs but are healthy again for the 2026-27 season, having played in preseason games. Haliburton hopes they can be "at least cordial again," with a potential meeting when the Pacers host the Trail Blazers on Dec. 17.
Haliburton also said he still needs to readjust to the speed of the game, noting slowing down will be his biggest adjustment.
Source: ESPN NBA · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing