Stephen A. Smith Casts Doubt on Tyrese Haliburton’s Superstar Status After Lackluster Game [Video]

In the Indiana Pacers’ Game Two loss of the NBA Finals, All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton delivered a relatively underwhelming performance. Despite hitting a game-winning shot earlier in the series and sparking conversations about his emerging superstar status, Haliburton finished with 17 points, three rebounds, and six assists, 10 of those points coming in the fourth quarter.

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ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith weighed in Monday morning, using Haliburton’s Game Two showing as a prime example of why the “superstar” talk was premature.

“Superstar status is reserved for the few,” Smith declared. “When we talk about LeBron James, there is no question that is a superstar. When we talk about Steph Curry, there is no question. When we talk about KD, Giannis, Jokic, there is no question you’re talking about superstar status… So when you mention somebody on that level, it’s got to be bonafide. It can’t be a question mark or whatever. Haliburton has that potential, but in the end, last night was emblematic of the criticism that he’s received. Because in losses and games they’ve struggled, that’s what he’s looked like.”

Superstar recognition comes with elevated expectations and heightened scrutiny. It may feel unfair at times, but that’s part of the package. The Iowa State product will need to bounce back in Game 3 on Wednesday—otherwise, this series could wrap up in five.

Take a look at the video of Smith on first take this morning below.

.@stephenasmith calls out Tyrese Haliburton after the Pacers’ Game 2 loss.

“Last night was emblematic of the criticism that he’s received, because in losses, and in games they’ve struggled, that’s what he’s looked like. Where you at? … With him, it happens too often.” pic.twitter.com/IcQg46YO4q

— First Take (@FirstTake) June 9, 2025