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Tyrese Haliburton reflects on wanted partnership with Devin Booker

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 23, 2026, 8:53 PM

Last updated Aug 23, 2026

Tyrese Haliburton reflects on wanted partnership with Devin Booker

Summary

Tyrese Haliburton, a guard for the Indiana Pacers, expressed his desire to play alongside Devin Booker on the Phoenix Suns during the 2020 NBA Draft. Haliburton recalled how he and his agent contacted the Suns, believing they needed a point guard. The Suns ultimately selected Jalen Smith at No. 10, leaving Haliburton to be drafted by the Sacramento Kings at No. 12. Since then, Haliburton has become a two-time All-Star and led the Pacers to the NBA Finals in 2025, while the Suns integrated Chris Paul shortly after the draft, altering their trajectory. Haliburton's remarks shed light on what might have been had the Suns chosen him.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Haliburton wanted to be drafted by the Suns in 2020.
•The Suns picked Jalen Smith instead of Haliburton.
•Haliburton became a two-time All-Star and finals participant.
•Phoenix acquired Chris Paul, impacting their development.
•Haliburton's comments came during an appearance on a podcast.

Latest Updates

8:53 PMYahoo Sports — Tyrese Haliburton wanted to play with Devin Booker, the Suns had other plans

What they're saying

"
PHOENIX — Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton can still remember where he wanted to go on draft night, and who he wanted to play alongside. Jan 4, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) reacts in the second half against the Phoenix Suns at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Indiana Pacers Phoenix Suns Sacramento Kings NBA Basketball