The Indiana Pacers have indeed honored their star player, Tyrese Haliburton, with a statue in his hometown of Oshkosh, Wisconsin. This gesture recognizes his remarkable impact and dedication to the club. Let’s dive into the details of this inspiring story.
*The Statue Unveiling Ceremony*
The statue was unveiled at the newly renamed Haliburton Plaza, located outside Oshkosh North High School, where Tyrese first showcased his basketball skills. The ceremony drew a diverse crowd, including Pacers owner Herb Simon, head coach Rick Carlisle, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, and Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers. Fans of all ages attended, proudly wearing custom jerseys and holding signs that read “Oshkosh’s Finest” and “#0 = Our Hero”.
*A Symbol of Determination and Vision*
The statue, crafted by renowned sports artist Annabelle Royce, captures Haliburton’s unique style – effortless yet controlled, innovative yet grounded. With his trademark goggles, gentle smile, and poised handle, the image is both heroic and human. The statue’s marble base features Haliburton’s personal motto, “Lead With Joy,” and his notable achievements, including ¹:
– *2× NBA All-Star (2024, 2025)*
– *2024 NBA Assist Leader*
– *First player in Pacers history to average 20+ points and 10+ assists in a season*
– *Led Indiana to their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in over a decade*
*Community Reactions and Legacy*
The statue’s unveiling sparked a mix of emotions, with fans and community members expressing pride and affection for Haliburton. Ken Moore, his former youth coach, fondly recalled Haliburton’s dedication and work ethic, even as a middle school student. The statue serves as a reminder of Haliburton’s journey from a small-town prodigy to a national icon.
*Impact on the Community*
The statue has become a symbol of hope and unity in Oshkosh, inspiring local youth and fans alike. The city has embraced the statue, with nearby businesses and art collectives creating murals and commemorative merchandise. The Pacers organization has also taken note, with players wearing a special patch featuring the statue’s outline on their jerseys.
*A Lasting Tribute*
As Haliburton himself said during the ceremony, “This statue isn’t just for me – it’s for every kid who’s ever dribbled a ball in the snow, every family who believed in a dream, and every fan who never gave up.” The statue represents a milestone in Haliburton’s career, but he emphasizes that his journey is far from over. With more to prove, more to win, and more to give, the future looks bright for this talented player ¹.
