The Indiana Pacers are heading to the Eastern Conference Finals for the second consecutive season, but for Tyrese Haliburton, this victory meant more than just advancing—it was personal.
After being labeled the “most overrated” player in the NBA in an anonymous player poll earlier this season, Haliburton responded with a stellar postseason performance, silencing his doubters. And now, he has the backing of one of the greatest players of all time—LeBron James.
Following Indiana’s 114-105 Game 5 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, James took to social media to praise Haliburton’s performance.
“Hali fkn hooping!!!! Where the lames who said he was overrated??!! Quiet as hell. That boy NICE and even more someone everyone would love to play with!” James wrote on X.
Hali fkn hooping!!!! Where the lames who said he was overrated??!! Quiet as hell. That boy NICE and even more someone everyone would love to play with! 🧠 🏀 @mindthegamepod
— LeBron James (@KingJames) May 14, 2025
James’ comments were a direct response to the “overrated” narrative that had followed Haliburton throughout the playoffs. The Pacers guard had been heckled by opposing fans, including Cleveland supporters who chanted “overrated” during earlier games in the series.
But Haliburton never backed down. Instead, he used the criticism as fuel, delivering 31 points, 8 assists, and 6 rebounds in the series-clinching win.
Haliburton has been one of the biggest stars of the postseason, leading Indiana past the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round and now eliminating the top-seeded Cavaliers in just five games.
His ability to control the pace, knock down clutch shots, and create for teammates has been instrumental in Indiana’s success.
Even after the poll labeled him the most overrated player, Haliburton responded with confidence, posting on social media after a dramatic Game 2 win:
“Overrate THAT.”
With the Eastern Conference Finals ahead, Haliburton and Indiana have proven they belong among the league’s elite, and with LeBron James publicly backing him, the narrative surrounding Haliburton has officially flipped.
