Indiana Pacers fans will have to endure a season without their floor general as Tyrese Haliburton recovers from a torn Achilles tendon—a blow to a rising NBA contender.

Yet Haliburton’s competitive spirit remains undiminished. While unable to contribute physically, Pacers president Kevin Pritchard outlined Haliburton’s role as an assistant scout, providing rosters insights and emotional support from the bench.

This sideline presence keeps Haliburton engaged in team dynamics, maintaining leadership while his jersey stays hung up for rehab. 

Learning in the Digital Lab: NBA 2K as a Classroom

Haliburton’s unconventional strategy, revealed while talking to CBS Sports' Robby Kalland, has drawn league-wide attention: he studies basketball inside NBA 2K’s GM Mode, treating the popular video game as a tactical laboratory.

From simulating roster trades and draft scenarios to analyzing “hot spots” and player tendencies, Haliburton leverages every feature to stay ahead of the curve. “I try to use the game to the best of my ability to learn,” he said, noting that virtual season simulations allow him to test hypothetical moves and forecast Pacers’ performance in myriad lineups.

The hands-on approach keeps Haliburton mentally sharp, blending statistics with simulated experience—a unique tool embraced for professional preparation. 

Staying Close to the Game and Preparing for Return

For Haliburton, 2K isn’t just entertainment—it’s a lifeline to basketball, offering connection and insight during a forced absence. By diving into MyGM and MyNBA modes, he turns downtime into competitive study, sharing this method with teammates to stay steeped in hoops culture.

Haliburton hopes such dedication will accelerate his readiness for the 2026-27 season, ensuring he returns not just healthy, but smarter and more informed. His strategy reflects a new era for NBA players—one where virtual innovation rivals the gym in keeping stars locked on their game.