Tyrese Haliburton can’t help but laugh at the oversized avatar of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in NBA 2K26, a moment that reflects both humor and the competitive spirit between the two players. The Indiana Pacers star recently shared his thoughts during a live stream, where he encountered the avatar that resembled SGA but with an exaggeratedly large head. “Every time I blink on this game, he’s right there. Giving me nightmares, bruh,” Haliburton joked, highlighting the ongoing rivalry and camaraderie between the two athletes.
The backdrop of this playful banter is the thrilling 2025 NBA Finals, where the Oklahoma City Thunder, led by Gilgeous-Alexander, emerged victorious against Haliburton’s Pacers in a hard-fought seven-game series. SGA’s stellar performance earned him the Finals MVP title, a testament to his exceptional skills on the court. The series was a rollercoaster ride, with Indiana even taking a 2-1 lead before the Thunder rallied to claim the championship.
For Haliburton, the Finals were particularly painful, not just because of the loss but also due to a torn Achilles tendon he sustained in the opening minutes of Game 7. This injury will keep him off the court for approximately 15 months, a challenging setback for the young star. In coping with this difficult period, Haliburton has turned to his love for video games, particularly NBA 2K26. However, it seems that even in the virtual realm, he can’t escape the shadow of Gilgeous-Alexander.
Despite the heartbreak of the Finals, Haliburton’s lighthearted approach to his situation showcases his resilience. The Pacers’ point guard is known for his sense of humor, and his reaction to the 2K26 avatar is a perfect example of how he uses laughter to navigate adversity. As he continues to recover from his injury, Haliburton will likely spend more time in the gaming world, where he may frequently encounter SGA, both in the game and in his thoughts.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s rise to prominence in the NBA is well-deserved. Averaging an impressive 30.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and 1.9 steals per game, he has solidified his place not only in the hearts of fans but also in NBA history. His performance in the Finals was nothing short of extraordinary, and his avatar’s popularity in NBA 2K26 reflects his status as one of the league’s top players.
As Haliburton recovers and navigates his new reality, he may want to consider diversifying his hobbies beyond gaming. Perhaps gardening or another pastime could provide a break from the constant reminders of SGA. Regardless, fans can expect to see Haliburton’s competitive spirit shine through as he prepares for his return to the court.
In the meantime, the NBA community eagerly awaits updates on both players. Haliburton’s humorous take on his situation serves as a reminder of the camaraderie that exists among players, even in the face of fierce competition. As the new NBA season approaches, fans will be watching closely to see how both Haliburton and Gilgeous-Alexander continue to evolve as players and individuals.