In the high-octane world of the NBA, where every second counts and mental toughness often separates the good from the great, star players have their unique rituals and routines to prepare for tip-off. Recently, during a candid interview, NBA correspondent Dyson Daniels sat down with Sacramento Kings’ rising star Tyrese Haliburton to dive deep into the guard’s pregame mental preparation. What started as a typical inquiry quickly turned into an entertaining and insightful moment, highlighted by Tyrese’s unexpected confession: “I still eat Goldfish at 60 minutes on the clock.”
For fans and followers of Haliburton, the revelation was both amusing and surprisingly relatable. Amid the intense pressures of being a young NBA star, the 24-year-old guard keeps it refreshingly simple with his pregame routine — and it begins with a humble snack.
“I’m not joking,” Tyrese laughed during the interview. “About an hour before tip-off, I sit down with a little bag of Goldfish crackers. It’s a comfort thing. Something familiar that keeps me calm and focused before the chaos.”
This seemingly small habit is just one layer of Haliburton’s comprehensive mental game preparation. As an emerging leader for the Kings, Tyrese has become known not only for his silky shooting stroke and playmaking but also for his calm, composed demeanor under pressure. His mental approach is a big part of that success.
“I think a lot of people underestimate how much mental prep goes into performing at this level,” Tyrese explained. “It’s not just physical. You have to be sharp mentally — focused, confident, and ready for whatever the game throws at you.”
So, beyond the Goldfish crackers, what else goes into Haliburton’s pregame mental routine?
1. Visualization and Mental Rehearsal
Tyrese revealed that visualization is a cornerstone of his preparation. He takes time to mentally rehearse various game scenarios, from hitting clutch shots to managing defensive pressure. “I try to picture the whole game in my mind — what I want to do, how I want to move, the types of decisions I’ll make,” he said. “It helps me get in the zone before I even step on the court.”
This practice is a common technique among elite athletes, allowing them to anticipate challenges and rehearse responses in a controlled, stress-free environment. For Haliburton, it’s a way to boost confidence and reduce anxiety.
2. Mindfulness and Breathing Exercises
Staying calm amidst the noise of a packed arena can be challenging. To combat nerves, Tyrese incorporates mindfulness techniques into his routine, including deep breathing exercises. “When the crowd gets loud or the game gets intense, I use breathing to reset my mind and stay present,” he said. “It’s about controlling what you can control.”
This practice helps him maintain composure during critical moments, ensuring he doesn’t get rattled by external distractions.
3. Pre-Game Music Playlist
Music plays a significant role in setting Tyrese’s mental tone. He curates specific playlists that pump him up or help him relax depending on the day. “Sometimes I need hype, sometimes I need chill vibes,” he shared. “Music is like my mental soundtrack.”
This auditory cue signals to his brain that it’s time to shift focus and prepare for battle.
4. Positive Affirmations
Tyrese also uses positive self-talk as a tool to build confidence. Repeating affirmations like “I’ve got this” or “Stay locked in” reinforces a winning mindset. “Your brain listens to what you say to yourself,” he noted. “It’s important to feed it good stuff.”
Positive affirmations can help counteract doubt and fear, especially in high-pressure moments.
5. Staying Hydrated and Eating Right
Physical readiness feeds mental readiness, and Tyrese is meticulous about fueling his body properly. That’s why the Goldfish crackers at 60 minutes aren’t just about comfort — they’re part of a broader nutritional strategy to maintain energy and focus.
“I like to keep snacks light but enough to keep my blood sugar steady,” he explained. “You can’t play your best if you’re hungry or feeling sluggish.”
The Power of Routine
What stands out in Haliburton’s approach is the power of routine. By anchoring himself to familiar habits — from eating Goldfish crackers to listening to certain songs — he creates a mental environment where focus and confidence flourish.
“It’s about creating a bubble around yourself where you can perform your best,” Tyrese said. “Everyone has something that grounds them, and this is mine.”
The Role of NBA Correspondent Dyson Daniels
Dyson Daniels, known for his insightful interviews and deep knowledge of the game, brought an easygoing yet probing style to the conversation. His question about mental preparation unlocked a side of Tyrese many fans might not have seen before.
“Dyson’s interviews always feel like a conversation between friends,” Tyrese remarked. “It’s comfortable, so I can be real. Talking about the mental side is important because it’s often overlooked.”
Daniels, a former player himself, understands the pressures NBA athletes face and how mental health and preparation are critical components of performance.
Lessons for Fans and Aspiring Players
Haliburton’s candidness offers valuable lessons beyond basketball. In any high-pressure situation—whether it’s sports, school, work, or personal challenges—mental preparation can be a game changer. Small rituals, mindfulness, visualization, and positive thinking aren’t just for elite athletes; they’re tools anyone can use to boost confidence and performance.
“I want people to know that even though I’m in the NBA, I still have simple things that help me,” Tyrese said. “You don’t have to do anything fancy. Find what works for you and stick to it.”
Looking Ahead
As Tyrese Haliburton continues to develop into one of the NBA’s brightest young stars, his mental approach will remain a key factor in his success. With the Kings aiming for playoff contention and beyond, that calm, collected mindset—starting with Goldfish crackers at 60 minutes—could make all the difference.
“I’m always learning and evolving,” Tyrese said. “But one thing stays the same — I keep that ritual close. It reminds me where I came from and keeps me grounded for where I’m going.”
In the fast-paced, high-pressure world of professional basketball, sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest impact. And for Tyrese Haliburton, that’s as simple—and delicious—as a handful of Goldfish crackers right when the clock hits 60 minutes before game time.
