Oct 7, 2026 · 7 min
Haliburton returns to Iowa State for an emotional homecoming
DAILY CLONE: Haliburton Homecoming at Hilton
Tyrese Haliburton’s first competitive appearance since his Achilles injury carries unusual weight because it may be his only game at Hilton Coliseum.
- 1Haliburton’s return marks his first in-game action since tearing his Achilles in the 2025 NBA Finals.
- 2Iowa State shaped Haliburton’s growth into adulthood as much as it established his basketball legacy.
- 3The Hilton Coliseum game gives Haliburton and Cyclone fans a rare chance to celebrate their lasting connection.
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Haliburton reflects on how Iowa State helped him grow into adulthood, giving his return to Hilton meaning beyond basketball.
The brief
Tyrese Haliburton is set to play at Hilton Coliseum in his first competitive game since tearing his Achilles in the 2025 NBA Finals.
Jake Brend frames the return as a homecoming for one of Iowa State’s all-time greats, whose college career missed the storybook ending he wanted.
Haliburton recalls how Ames and Iowa State shaped him beyond basketball, teaching independence and helping him grow into adulthood away from family.
The comeback carries personal stakes because this preseason appearance may be Haliburton’s only chance to play at Hilton Coliseum again.
Brend expects limited minutes but a meaningful night as Haliburton and Cyclone fans reconnect through mutual appreciation inside Hilton.