'Makes you dangerous' – Tyrese Haliburton earns high praise from OKC Thunder's Jalen Williams ahead of NBA Finals Game 1
Tyrese Haliburton. Image via: Ethan Miller/ Getty Images
As the Oklahoma City Thunder prepare to host the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, all eyes are on Tyrese Haliburton. The young Pacers star has emerged as one of the most influential players in this year's postseason.
With both teams boasting deep rosters and youthful cores, Thunder forward Jalen Williams offered genuine admiration for Haliburton, explaining the Pacers guard's unique qualities that make him a real threat on the biggest stage.
Jalen Williams applauds Tyrese Haliburton's confidence and leadership
Tyrese Haliburton has been at the heart of the Indiana Pacers' historic playoff run. After leading Indiana to its first NBA Finals appearance in 25 years, he's now drawing attention from fellow competitors while being the center of discussion among fans and analysts.
Jalen Williams, who has also been one of the star players in the Thunder's own rise, didn't hesitate when asked about what makes Haliburton special.
'What makes him very good is that he's very confident,' Williams said. 'To be able to play as well as he's been playing through a lot of the overrated stuff, and for him to be able to play through that, you've got to tip your hat to him for that. Just an extremely confident individual, and I think that, regardless of who you are, makes you dangerous.'
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Haliburton proved his value during the Eastern Conference Finals against the Knicks, where he averaged 21 points, 10.3 assists, and 2.5 steals per game. His playmaking helped the Pacers overcome seasoned opponents, despite not winning the ECF MVP. He has been a major driving force behind Indiana's deep playoff push.
Williams also pointed out the shared DNA between both squads, 'They are pretty close to us in regards to like how close they are as a team.
Obviously, I'm not in their locker room, so I don't know. But outside looking in, they look like they have a lot of fun playing with each other, and their crowd is really into it, like their city loves them.'
Both teams have grown from within, relying on player development rather than high-profile offseason trades. The Pacers made no significant roster changes, while the Thunder's only additions were Isaiah Hartenstein and Alex Caruso.
Williams believes that chemistry and shared experience are the X-factors, 'When everybody's allowed to be themselves, I think you get the best growth from your team,' he said. 'We've all had the same approach… I think the Pacers probably have something to do with that as well.'
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Haliburton's performance throughout this season has also been commendable. The Pacers guard has made the Organization's dream come true and might as well win the Championship over the Thunder. Regardless, fans can expect a high-end, tough battle in the NBA finals.
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