Though Tyrese Haliburton is able to get the NBA preseason rolling, the Indiana Pacers guard delayed his journey to Memphis so he may attend WWE Fastlane. He’ll nonetheless take part in Sunday evening’s sport in opposition to the Grizzlies.
As his social media posts have made clear, Haliburton is a large WWE fan and didn’t wish to miss this occasion that includes John Cena, which came about on Saturday. In accordance with Pacers coach Rick Carlisle, Haliburton requested for permission to make his personal journey preparations effectively upfront.
“He talked with me about this round six weeks in the past,” Carlisle mentioned after Saturday’s apply. “… I am very curious to see what they’ve in retailer for him. So long as they do not put him within the sleeper maintain, that’ll be good. I am positive no matter it’s will probably be entertaining.”
Haliburton had a entrance row seat, however he additionally acquired to perform a little bit extra than simply watch the motion. The 2023 NBA All-Star additionally determined to sit down in throughout press conferences and even requested a query — which confirmed how carefully he pays consideration to WWE.
This was removed from Haliburton’s first occasion. He was additionally on the WWE Smackdown at Gainbridge Fieldhouse final November.
When explaining the place this ardour comes from, Haliburton mentioned he loves WWE due to an previous household custom.
“My uncle Gary, he is deceased now, however after I was a child he used to return to my home and we might all the time watch it collectively,” Haliburton advised reporters earlier than the occasion. “Each time I give it some thought, I consider my uncle Gary. He knew my mother would pay for the pay-per-views if I cried laborious sufficient for it. It is only a reminiscence I’ve with him. And my dad all the time took me every time they got here to Wisconsin. Each WWE occasion I all the time take my dad, so I am wanting ahead to tonight.”
Haliburton and the remainder of the Pacers are taking up the Grizzlies on Sunday at 8 p.m. ET.