On June 5, 2025, Tyrese Haliburton made headlines as he debuted his first signature shoe, the Puma Hali 1, during Game 1 of the NBA Finals. This momentous occasion took place as the Indiana Pacers faced off against the Oklahoma City Thunder, marking Haliburton’s inaugural appearance in the Finals. The shoe was showcased in its vibrant “Hibiscus” colorway, generating excitement among fans and sneaker enthusiasts alike. However, for those eager to get their hands on the Hali 1, it won’t be available in stores until September.
The buzz surrounding Haliburton’s debut has been palpable on social media, with fans and analysts alike sharing their thoughts. NBA insider Sergio Gonzalez praised a recent article detailing Haliburton’s journey through the playoffs, while Lev Akabas pointed out the absence of top-followed players in the Finals, highlighting Haliburton’s growing profile in the league.
As the Pacers prepare for a tough matchup against the Thunder, Haliburton has acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, “They’re a historically great team…we know the odds are stacked against us.” This acknowledgment of the Thunder’s formidable reputation adds to the narrative of an underdog Pacers team looking to make a mark in the Finals.
Haliburton’s performance has been noteworthy throughout the playoffs, and he has quickly become one of the most exciting players to watch. His ability to create assists has made him a key player for the Pacers, and he has formed strong connections with teammates like Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner. In fact, the Pacers have seen impressive assist combinations this season, with Haliburton leading the charge.
The significance of Haliburton’s signature shoe cannot be overstated. He is now among an elite group of athletes who have received a signature shoe from Puma, joining the ranks of legends like Clyde Frazier and Vince Carter, as well as current stars such as Breanna Stewart and LaMelo Ball. This milestone reflects not only Haliburton’s talent on the court but also his growing brand off of it.
As the Finals unfold, all eyes will be on Haliburton, not just for his performance but also for how he represents a new wave of talent in the NBA. The impact of his debut shoe could resonate beyond the court, influencing sneaker culture and the marketing of athletes in the league.
In the lead-up to Game 1, media coverage has been extensive, with various analysts sharing insights on the matchup and the players involved. Duane Rankin, for example, conducted polls reflecting on the Phoenix Suns’ past draft decisions, sparking discussions about Haliburton’s potential had he been selected by the Suns instead of Jalen Smith.
As fans gear up for what promises to be an exhilarating Finals series, the excitement surrounding Tyrese Haliburton and his new signature shoe adds an extra layer of intrigue. With the Pacers aiming to upset the odds against the Thunder, Haliburton’s performance, both in the game and in his new kicks, will be closely watched by fans across the United States.
The NBA Finals not only showcase the pinnacle of basketball talent but also serve as a platform for emerging stars like Haliburton to shine. As the series progresses, fans can expect thrilling moments and perhaps a glimpse of the future of the league through the lens of its young stars.