Tyrese Haliburton: From Oshkosh to the NBA and Team USA
Tyrese Haliburton's journey from a young, determined player in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, to becoming a prominent figure in the NBA and a current Olympian with Team USA is a testament to his resilience and unique skills. His path was anything but conventional, marked by challenges and unconventional milestones that propelled him to the global stage.
A Rocky Start in High School
Haliburton's basketball career began with a significant setback. As a high school freshman, he was essentially let go from the Playground Warriors AAU team in Oshkosh. "They never said that I was cut, but my parents told me that it was essentially like, 'He can come if he wants to,'" Haliburton recalled. This ambiguous dismissal left a teenage Haliburton feeling embarrassed and discouraged. “I left in tears because I was so embarrassed of what was going on,” he admitted.
Finding a New Path with Wisconsin United
Following his departure from the Playground Warriors, Haliburton found a new opportunity with Wisconsin United, a team based in Milwaukee. Joining Wisconsin United required a considerable commitment, involving a three-hour round trip from Haliburton's home in Oshkosh. Despite the travel, this move was a turning point in his career.
At Wisconsin United, coach Bryan Johnikin saw potential in Haliburton and sought to refine his game. During one practice session, Johnikin used his 3-year-old grandson as a defender to expose Haliburton's low release point on his shot. It was an unconventional method, yet it played a crucial role in shaping Haliburton's distinctive shooting style.
The Unconventional Shot
Haliburton’s distinctive shot, which begins with the ball in front of his chest and ends with a catapult-like motion that produces significant sidespin, has become a hallmark of his game. Despite its unorthodox appearance, the shot has proven to be highly effective. "To the average fan, or anybody who plays, obviously it isn't textbook. But there's no denying how effective it is. It's straight cash, is the best way I can put it," noted Pacers guard TJ McConnell.
Remarkably, Haliburton has only shot below 40% from behind the arc once in his six seasons between Iowa State and the NBA. The lone dip in his shooting percentage occurred last season when he rushed back from a hamstring injury, a testament to his consistency and skill.
Rising to Prominence
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 185 pounds, Haliburton’s physical attributes complement his skill set, making him a significant presence on the court. His journey from Oshkosh to the NBA has been marked by hard work and perseverance. Now, he stands as a star player for the Indiana Pacers and a key figure in Team USA, representing his country on the global stage.
Haliburton's rise in the NBA is a source of pride for his hometown of Oshkosh and a testament to his dedication to never settling. He reflects on his past and uses his experiences as motivation. "Because I don't ever want to get back to a place like that," Haliburton shared, underscoring his drive to continue improving and contributing at the highest levels of play.
From a high school freshman cut from his team to an Olympian and NBA star, Tyrese Haliburton’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of greatness. As he continues to shine on the court and represent Team USA, his journey serves as an inspiring reminder that the path to success is often filled with challenges that shape and define a true champion.