Tyrese Haliburton says he has directly pitched LeBron James about joining the Indiana Pacers, sending the former Los Angeles Lakers star a recruiting text message. According to Haliburton’s account, James’ reply did not include a clear commitment to Indiana, but instead came back with a brief reaction—described in one report as “six laughing-crying emojis.”
Haliburton’s comments, shared on the Pat McAfee Show, position the Pacers as one of several teams reportedly trying to attract James during free agency. Other outlets’ coverage of the same story indicates multiple NBA stars are attempting to lure him, but Haliburton is the one who has publicly discussed his outreach.
In the same reporting, James is described as concentrating on a smaller set of teams rather than considering Indiana. That suggested shortlist includes the Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, Philadelphia 76ers, and Golden State Warriors. The reports do not provide details on any formal agreement or negotiation with Indiana.
