(Crankers) The Indiana Pacers’ thrilling 119-118 overtime victory over the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, clinching a 4-1 series win, was briefly overshadowed by a confrontation between John Haliburton, father of Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton, and Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Moments after Tyrese Haliburton’s game-winning layup with 1.3 seconds left in overtime, John Haliburton approached Antetokounmpo on the court, waving a towel or flag with his son’s face and shouting, “This is what we do!” and a more explicit variant, per witnesses. Antetokounmpo, frustrated by the Bucks’ collapse from a seven-point lead, called the actions disrespectful.
“I thought it was a fan,” Antetokounmpo said post-game. “Knowing it was Tyrese’s dad, it still felt off.” The two briefly faced off before Bucks guard Pat Connaughton and others separated them. A later conversation ended with Antetokounmpo giving a thumbs-up, signaling a resolution.
Tyrese Haliburton, unaware of the incident during the game, addressed it maturely. “My dad’s passion is huge, but that wasn’t right,” he said. “I’ll talk to him and Giannis to move forward. We respect Giannis.” His response was praised for its professionalism.
The game showcased the Pacers’ resilience, with Haliburton delivering a near triple-double (18 points, 10 rebounds, 16 assists) and Pascal Siakam scoring 25 points. Antetokounmpo’s 30-point, 20-rebound triple-double wasn’t enough for the Bucks, who were without Damian Lillard due to an Achilles injury.
Social media reactions were split, with some fans defending John Haliburton’s enthusiasm and others supporting Antetokounmpo’s call for respect. The NBA has not announced disciplinary action, and both parties seem focused on moving forward.
The No. 4-seeded Pacers now advance to face the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers, who swept the Miami Heat, in the Eastern Conference semifinals, starting May 4 in Cleveland. The Pacers won three of four regular-season matchups against the 64-18 Cavaliers, promising a competitive series.