AFCON 2025
The Indiana Pacers secured a thrilling 119-118 overtime win against the Milwaukee Bucks at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, with Tyrese Haliburton sinking the game-winning shot.
However, the celebration was marred by a post-game scuffle between Haliburton’s father, John, and Antetokounmpo.
According to reports, John Haliburton approached Antetokounmpo, waving a towel with his son’s face and making comments that Antetokounmpo perceived as disrespectful.
"I don't think that my pops was in the right at all there. … We will have a conversation and I'll talk to Giannis it's unfortunate we're all grown men."
— Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod 🇸🇴 (@big_business_) April 30, 2025
Tyrese Haliburton on the confrontation his dad had with Giannis following Pacers-Buckspic.twitter.com/NJfCnPEfUR
The two exchanged heated words, with Giannis even pressing foreheads with John before teammates intervened.
Tyrese Haliburton addressed the incident in the post-game press conference, saying:
“As far as the incident between Giannis and my pops, I had no idea it happened until I got to the back and was shown the video.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tyrese Haliburtons father 👀 👀 pic.twitter.com/9Xq4WRb9ip
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) April 30, 2025
“I think basketball is basketball, and let’s keep it on the court. And I think that he just got excited, saw his son make a game winner, and came on the court.”
Haliburton also extended respect towards Antetokounmpo, stating that he plans to speak with him about the incident. “I don’t think my pops was in the right at all there,” he said.
