Tyrese Haliburton Hopes to Mend Relationship With Damian Lillard Following In-Season Tournament Mockery

Tyrese Haliburton expressed regret on "The Zach Lowe Show" for mocking Damian Lillard's "Dame Time" celebration during the 2023 NBA Cup semifinals.

Tyrese Haliburton told "The Zach Lowe Show" on Thursday that he hopes to repair his relationship with Damian Lillard following a 2023 in-season tournament incident. During the Pacers' semifinal victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, Haliburton hit a 3-pointer with under 60 seconds remaining and mimicked Lillard’s signature "Dame Time" wrist-tap celebration. The Indiana guard admitted the move damaged a bond with a player who frequently checked on him following his 2022 trade from the Sacramento Kings.

Both players are returning to action for the 2026-27 season after missing the previous year due to torn Achilles tendons suffered during the 2025 playoffs. Lillard is now a member of the Portland Trail Blazers, having returned to the franchise in the 2025 offseason after being waived by Milwaukee. Haliburton noted that a recent opportunity to speak with Lillard in Portland was missed due to a case of shingles.

Potential reconciliations could occur during two upcoming matchups between the Pacers and Trail Blazers. Indiana is scheduled to host Portland on Dec. 17, with a return game in Oregon set for Feb. 18. Haliburton, who helped lead the Pacers to the 2025 NBA Finals, stated he is currently focused on readjusting to the speed of the game during the 2026 preseason.