INDIANAPOLIS — Tyrese Haliburton hit the biggest shot of his postseason life — and got away with a celebration that’s cost others before him.
After draining the game-winning 3-pointer with 1.1 seconds left in Indiana’s thrilling 120-119 comeback win over the Cavaliers in Game 2, Tyrese Haliburton broke into a bold dance that evoked Sam Cassell’s infamous gesture — one that previously earned fines for LeBron James and Julius Randle.
This time, the NBA let it slide.
A league source confirmed Thursday that Haliburton received only a warning, not a fine, for the celebration. The person spoke to the Associated Press anonymously, as no official announcement has been made.
“I’ve been waiting for that, man,” Haliburton laughed postgame. “I’ll take that fine, gladly.”
Turns out, he won’t have to.
The Moment — and the Message
Haliburton’s deep three capped a 20-point rally and gave the Pacers a stunning 2-0 series lead heading back to Indiana.
His celebration — raw, unfiltered, and entirely emotional — went viral almost immediately, adding fuel to one of the most surprising series storylines of the postseason.
The NBA’s decision not to issue a fine may reflect the context: a career-defining shot, a home crowd explosion, and a player fully immersed in the moment.
What’s Next
With the series now shifting to Indianapolis for Games 3 and 4, Haliburton’s star — and swagger — continue to grow.
Game 3 tips off Friday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. And for now, the league seems content to let the Pacers enjoy their moment.
