Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton has revealed that his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon has been complicated by an unexpected foe: shingles. The two-time All-Star, who missed the entire 2024-25 season, told reporters on Monday that the viral infection has caused weight gain, partial loss of his right eyebrow, and forced him to wear glasses to protect a swollen eye.
“First of all, I'd tell anybody over 50 years old to get the shot,” Haliburton said. “It's been miserable. I have good days and bad days, but for the most part it's been bad days.” He added that nerve pain has persisted for two months despite medication and a Botox injection.
Anyone who has had chickenpox carries the virus, which can reactivate as shingles when the immune system is weakened. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one in three Americans will develop shingles, and up to 20% suffer long-term nerve pain.
Haliburton’s lower right leg is fully healed, but the illness delayed his return to five-on-five workouts until last week. “I'm out of shape like crazy, like I never have been before,” he said. The Pacers finished with a 19-63 record, last in the Eastern Conference, after losing numerous starters to injury early in the season.
Teammate Pascal Siakam described the season as “tough mentally.” Haliburton, meanwhile, remained involved in team activities as encouraged by coach Rick Carlisle. Looking ahead, he is confident he will be ready for the 2025-26 campaign. “I've got a long summer ahead of me... I can't wait till I get out there and play and compete with my guys,” he said.
