Thu May 01 20:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Pacers Star’s Father Apologizes for On-Court Altercation with Giannis Antetokounmpo

**Indianapolis, IN** – The Indiana Pacers’ series victory over the Milwaukee Bucks was overshadowed by a post-game altercation involving Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton’s father, John Haliburton, and Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Following Tyrese Haliburton’s game-winning layup in overtime, John Haliburton entered the court and engaged in a heated exchange with Antetokounmpo.

John Haliburton issued a public apology via X (formerly Twitter) early Wednesday morning, stating, “I sincerely apologize to Giannis, the Milwaukee Bucks and the Pacers organization for my actions following tonight’s game…This was not a good reflection on our sport or my son and I will not make that mistake again.” The apology came from an account (@PapaHaliburton) reactivated after a three-year hiatus.

Antetokounmpo described the incident during his post-game press conference, stating that he initially mistook Haliburton’s father for a fan. He recounted the exchange as disrespectful, highlighting the verbal abuse and feeling it was unacceptable, especially given his personal background and the respect his own late father instilled in him. However, Antetokounmpo also expressed he had spoken with John Haliburton and believed they had resolved the matter.

Tyrese Haliburton, who scored 29 points in the game, also addressed his father’s actions, stating he disagreed with his father’s behavior and that they had a conversation about it. He emphasized that his father should remain in the stands and allow him to celebrate on the court.

The Pacers, seeded fourth in the Eastern Conference, will now face the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers in the conference semifinals after their hard-fought victory against the Bucks.

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