In a sport where camaraderie often transcends rivalries, Tyrese Haliburton made it clear that his passion for Iowa State drew a hard line during Caitlin Clark’s NCAA years. Although both now play in Indianapolis – he with the Pacers and she with the Fever – their journey wasn’t always marked by mutual admiration.
In a recent interview, Haliburton admitted that, despite recognizing Clark’s talent, he couldn’t bring himself to root for her while she played for the Iowa Hawkeyes. “Connor [McCaffery] and I talked all the time about Caitlin’s journey, but I refused to cheer for her until she was out of college, because I’m not going to support Iowa,” he said candidly.
Caitlin Clark makes Breanna Stewart laugh after a historic return with the Fever
His connection to Iowa State, where he starred in college, outweighed even his professional respect for Clark, who revolutionized women’s college basketball with historic performances. The Iowa-Iowa State rivalry, known as the “Cy-Hawk Series,” remains one of the fiercest in college sports, and Haliburton wasn’t ready to compromise his loyalty.
From silent respect to professional support
Everything changed after the 2024 WNBA Draft, when Caitlin Clark was selected first overall by the Indiana Fever. The young phenom landed in the same city where Haliburton had already become a franchise star. Since then, their relationship has grown into one of mutual support.
They’ve been spotted attending each other’s games and spending time together off the court, representing a new chapter in their careers. Clark even praised the bond they’ve developed since joining forces in Indianapolis:
“Ty and I would say this is the place where we both hope to stay for the rest of our careers… People line up three hours before the game. I literally got chills thinking about it.”
The atmosphere in Indiana has played a major role in their development. While Haliburton led the Pacers to their first NBA Finals appearance in 25 years, Clark made her mark by guiding the Fever to the playoffs during her rookie season.
Indiana: the new home of two basketball icons
Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton reacts after making a three pointer against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half of Game 3 of the NBA Finals basketball.
With Gainbridge Fieldhouse as their shared stage, Indiana is experiencing a golden era. The pairing of Caitlin Clark and Tyrese Haliburton as the city’s basketball ambassadors enhances the appeal of a franchise now thriving in both professional leagues.
What started as a story of collegiate rivalry has evolved into one of shared respect and admiration. Today, Haliburton and Clark not only represent the heart of Indiana basketball – they symbolize its promising future.
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