Tyrese Haliburton Had High Praise for Andrew Nembhard After Game 1 of the NBA Finals 🗣️

In the wake of a thrilling Game 1 of the NBA Finals, Tyrese Haliburton didn’t hold back his admiration for teammate Andrew Nembhard, and it’s safe to say—basketball fans everywhere are taking notice. While the spotlight has often shone on stars like Haliburton himself, it was Nembhard who stepped into the limelight on the biggest stage, earning praise not just from analysts and fans, but from the Pacers’ very own floor general.

A Rising Star Shines Bright

In a Finals matchup full of big names and bigger expectations, Andrew Nembhard came through with the poise of a seasoned vet. Starting at guard for the Indiana Pacers, Nembhard delivered an all-around performance that helped keep his team competitive against a powerhouse opponent.

From the opening tip, it was clear Nembhard came ready to play. His decision-making was crisp, his defense sharp, and his confidence unshaken. Whether it was knocking down timely buckets, dishing out assists, or locking down the opposing guards, Nembhard looked every bit like a player born for the moment.

Haliburton’s Words Mean Something

Tyrese Haliburton, who has developed into one of the most charismatic and respected young leaders in the league, made sure everyone understood just how important Nembhard was in Game 1.

“Man, he was unbelievable out there,” Haliburton said postgame, beaming. “He played with so much poise. It’s not easy doing what he just did on this stage. That’s a big-time performance, and I’m proud of him.”

Haliburton didn’t stop there.

“I’ve said it before—Andrew’s got that ‘it’ factor. He doesn’t get rattled. He knows how to read the game, he defends, and he makes winning plays. Tonight, he showed the world what we already knew inside that locker room.”

Coming from Haliburton, who’s not just a teammate but the emotional leader of the Pacers, these words hit different. It’s not just praise—it’s a stamp of approval.

The Evolution of Nembhard

Drafted in the second round in 2022, Andrew Nembhard has steadily risen through the ranks. Known for his basketball IQ, calm demeanor, and versatility, the Canadian guard has often been described as “NBA ready” even from his rookie days. But even his biggest supporters couldn’t have predicted how vital he’d become to a Finals-contending squad this soon.

Throughout the 2024-25 season, Nembhard carved out a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable young two-way guards. Injuries in the backcourt early in the season gave him more minutes, and he responded by producing consistent, winning basketball.

By the time the playoffs arrived, head coach Rick Carlisle had no doubts—Nembhard belonged in the starting lineup. And now, under the bright lights of the Finals, he’s proving exactly why.

Game 1: A Statement Performance

In Game 1, Nembhard’s box score was solid—17 points, 6 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 steals—but the real story was in the intangibles. He controlled tempo. He made the right reads. He hit clutch shots. He refused to be overwhelmed by the pressure of the moment.

One particular sequence late in the third quarter—where Nembhard calmly navigated a double-team, hit a slick bounce pass to a cutting Obi Toppin, and then raced back to disrupt a fast break—was a microcosm of what he brings: unselfish, high-IQ, high-effort basketball.

Veteran Mindset, Young Body

It’s not just his skillset—it’s how he carries himself. Haliburton emphasized that part as well.

“You’d think he’s been in the league seven, eight years. He’s calm in the storm. That’s something you can’t teach. We trust him with the ball, we trust him on the defensive end, and most importantly—we trust him in the clutch.”

And trust is everything in the playoffs.

Building Chemistry and Trust

What makes this story even more special is the bond between Haliburton and Nembhard. While Haliburton is the team’s lead playmaker and All-Star, he’s also been a vocal supporter of his teammates, often deflecting praise to highlight the group effort.

Their chemistry on the court is clear—smart passing, selfless movement, and a shared understanding of spacing and timing. Off the court, Haliburton has taken on a big-brother role for younger teammates like Nembhard, helping them stay grounded and confident.

“Ty’s been huge for me,” Nembhard said during his own postgame interview. “He believes in me, and that makes it easier to go out there and play my game. We’ve got each other’s backs.”

The Bigger Picture

The Pacers aren’t just trying to win a championship—they’re building a culture. One that values team-first mentality, player development, and fearless basketball. Andrew Nembhard is a perfect reflection of that vision.

His Game 1 performance might be the beginning of something bigger—a true coming-out party on a national stage. With Haliburton leading and uplifting voices like his echoing through the league, expect Nembhard’s rise to continue.

What’s Next?

As the series continues, the spotlight will only get brighter. But if Game 1 is any indication, Nembhard is more than ready. And with leaders like Haliburton hyping him up, trusting him, and celebrating his growth, the Pacers look more united—and more dangerous—than ever.

One thing is certain: Andrew Nembhard just announced himself to the world. And Tyrese Haliburton, like a true leader, was the first to cheer the loudest.