Tyrese Haliburton's Journey: From Oshkosh to Team USA
Tyrese Haliburton, now an Indiana Pacers star and an Olympian with Team USA, has risen to prominence in the world of basketball through grit, resilience, and unorthodox talent. Yet, his path to success was far from a straightforward one. Haliburton’s journey began in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, where as a high school freshman, he faced a significant setback.
During his early years, Haliburton was a member of the Playground Warriors AAU team. However, his time with the team came to an abrupt end, not through an official cut but in a manner that left a lasting impact on him. "They never said that I was cut, but my parents told me that it was essentially like, 'He can come if he wants to,'" Haliburton recalls. This ambiguous rejection left young Tyrese searching for a new team and a new direction.
That search led him to Wisconsin United, a team based in Milwaukee, a decision that required a significant commitment. The drive from Oshkosh to Milwaukee was a three-hour round trip, a logistical challenge that would have deterred many. But for Haliburton, it was a necessary step in his development. Wisconsin United's coach, Bryan Johnikin, saw potential in Haliburton but pointed out an obvious flaw: his low release point. In a practice session, Johnikin used his 3-year-old grandson as a defender to highlight how easily opponents could block Haliburton’s shots.
Haliburton's shooting form is as unconventional as it is effective. His shot begins with the ball in front of his chest and transitions into a catapult-like motion that produces significant sidespin. Despite its unorthodox nature, the shot has proven effective time and again. "To the average fan, or anybody who plays, obviously it isn't textbook. But there's no denying how effective it is. It's straight cash, is the best way I can put it," says Pacers guard TJ McConnell.
This effectiveness is backed by Haliburton’s shooting statistics. Over six seasons at Iowa State and in the NBA, he has only shot below 40% from behind the arc once. That lone dip occurred last season when he rushed back from a hamstring injury. Yet, even with that setback, his performance remains impressive. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 185 pounds, Haliburton has developed into a formidable presence on the court.
Haliburton's experiences have shaped his approach to the game and life. Reflecting on his early disappointments, he acknowledges the emotional impact they had on him. “I left in tears because I was so embarrassed of what was going on,” he admits. These moments of vulnerability have fueled his determination. "Because I don't ever want to get back to a place like that," he asserts, underlining the resilience that has propelled him to the NBA and the international stage.
From Oshkosh to Milwaukee, and now to the global stage with Team USA, Tyrese Haliburton’s journey epitomizes the spirit of perseverance. His story is a testament to the idea that setbacks can be the very foundation upon which great success is built. The young boy who drove three hours round trip to practice has grown into a prominent figure in the NBA, showcasing not just his unique shooting form but also the indomitable will that drives him forward.