Sun May 11 22:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Pacers’ Haliburton Addresses Subpar Game 3 Performance, Absence from Post-Game Media
**Indianapolis, IN** – Indiana Pacers All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton addressed his underwhelming performance in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Cleveland Cavaliers, a 126-104 loss, during a Saturday press conference. Haliburton scored only four points on 2-of-8 shooting, adding five assists and three turnovers, resulting in a -20 plus/minus.
His appearance Saturday followed an unusual absence from Friday night’s post-game media availability. While Haliburton typically engages with reporters after games, he explained that he was not made available by the Pacers’ PR staff. He insisted this was outside his control and emphasized his willingness to answer questions, stating, “I don’t run away from any questions.”
Haliburton attributed his struggles to effective defense by the Cavaliers, specifically Max Strus’s tight man-to-man coverage and the Cavaliers’ use of a 3-2 zone defense anchored by Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley. Mobley’s presence, including four blocks of Haliburton’s shots, significantly impacted his offensive efficiency.
Despite the setback, Haliburton remained optimistic, highlighting the need for adjustments to counter the Cavaliers’ defensive strategies. He acknowledged his own need to improve ball movement and screening, stating, “I gotta do a better job of keeping myself involved as a screener, creating chaos, creating movement myself.” He also noted that the team understands the Cavaliers’ adjustments and plans to counter them.
Despite the loss, the Pacers still hold a 2-1 series lead. Haliburton expects a strong response from the Cavaliers, stating, “They threw a big punch… we just weren’t able to do it the rest of the game.” However, he remains confident, adding, “If I would’ve told you a week ago we’d be up 2-1 and being at home, we’d like where we are.” Game 4 is set for Sunday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
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