The summer of 2025 brought an unforgettable milestone for Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton and his longtime girlfriend, Jade Jones. The couple’s announcement of their engagement brought pure joy and an outpouring of support from fans, teammates, and the basketball community.
The moment was imbued with deep sentiment, not only because of the couple’s high-profile status but due to the highly symbolic location Tyrese chose to propose: Hilton Coliseum, the revered home arena where he played college basketball for Iowa State and met Jade for the first time.
The Road to the NBA: Tyrese Haliburton’s Early Life and Passion for Basketball
Born in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Tyrese Haliburton’s journey to NBA stardom was marked by a relentless work ethic and a strong support system. From an early age, basketball was more than a game for Tyrese—it was a calling. Inspired by his parents’ encouragement and his community’s love of hoops, Tyrese developed on-court intelligence and a style play that would eventually set him apart at every level.
His high school career at Oshkosh North saw him develop into a promising guard, earning statewide attention for his leadership, vision, and court awareness. He led his school to the Wisconsin Division I state championship and collected a host of honors, highlighting his outstanding academic record and commitment to community service off the court as well.
College Days at Iowa State: The Foundation of a Partnership
Choosing to play for Iowa State, Tyrese didn’t just advance his career; he took the first steps toward meeting his future fiancée, Jade Jones. At Iowa State, he quickly became known for his adaptability, court vision, and unselfish play—attributes valued by coaches and teammates. As a Cyclone, he helped turn around a struggling program, quickly becoming a team leader even as a young player. Haliburton finished his sophomore year as one of the most efficient passers in the nation, and his name became coupled with NBA Draft prospects.
Yet, basketball was just one part of his college experience. It was in Ames, in the student sections and bustling campus life, that Tyrese first crossed paths with Jade Jones. A fellow student and athletics enthusiast, Jade was known for her warmth, intelligence, and involvement in campus life. Friends recall how Tyrese and Jade’s personalities seemed to naturally complement each other—Tyrese, the cool and collected playmaker; Jade, the genuine, outgoing presence who supported her friends and fellow students with equal spirit.
Jade Jones: More Than a Supporter
Jade Jones, originally from Iowa, attended Iowa State where she excelled academically and became involved in student organizations. She carved out a name for herself on campus not just as Tyrese’s partner, but as a leader in her own right. Peers describe her as dedicated, empathetic, and ambitious—a student who balanced a full academic workload with a passion for helping others.
In interviews, Jade has pointed to her upbringing and family values as the bedrock of her resilience. Those same values underpinned her unwavering support for Tyrese as his profile—and the pressures of success—began to grow. Whether she was in the stands, managing her own commitments, or offering encouragement after tough losses, Jade remained a constant for Haliburton.
A Star Rises: Tyrese Haliburton’s NBA Career
Tyrese declared for the 2020 NBA Draft after his sophomore year, drafted 12th overall by the Sacramento Kings. Instantly, he made an impression in the league—showcasing precise passing, impressive three-point shooting, and basketball IQ beyond his years. His rookie season earned him All-Rookie First Team honors, with coaches and analysts praising his poise and leadership.
Over two seasons with Sacramento, Haliburton steadily improved, gaining a reputation as one of the smartest and most unselfish point guards in the NBA. He often credited Jade in media interviews as his anchor, saying, “She’s been with me through every step, keeping me grounded and reminding me to enjoy the ride.”
A dramatic trade to the Indiana Pacers in 2022 proved to be a turning point. Many young players would have struggled to adjust to a new team and expectations, but Haliburton embraced the challenge. Quickly, he earned the trust of Pacers brass, coaches, and teammates. As the 2023–2024 season progressed, Haliburton made his first All-Star appearance, broke franchise records for assists, and led the Pacers back to playoff contention.
Facing Adversity: Injuries and Setbacks
No athlete’s journey is without obstacles. For Tyrese Haliburton, adversity struck during the most critical moments of his young NBA career. The 2024–2025 season launched with soaring expectations, and Tyrese was the engine behind Indiana’s electrifying, team-centric style.
However, in the playoffs, Haliburton suffered a painful calf injury. Rather than sitting out, he played through discomfort, putting team first. His perseverance paid off as he guided Indiana through hard-fought series, including dramatic buzzer-beaters that showcased his clutch mentality. The Pacers’ march to the NBA Finals was a testament to teamwork and Haliburton’s leadership.
But fate intervened again. In the deciding Game 7 of the Finals, Tyrese sustained a devastating Achilles injury—a moment that cast a shadow over the team’s historic season. Fans and analysts alike lauded his courage, with one commentator stating, “Tyrese is the heartbeat of this team. He’ll be back, stronger than ever.”
Jade, too, became a symbol of support. She was photographed at every home game, her encouragement unwavering even during the darkest moments. Her heartfelt social media posts during Tyrese’s injuries offered fans another side of the story—a couple weathering storms together, resilient as ever.
The Proposal: Returning to Where It All Began
The decision to propose at Hilton Coliseum was as much about nostalgia as it was about honoring foundations. After the emotional highs and lows of the season, Tyrese sought to create a memory that would outshine the physical pain and disappointment of his injury.
Friends close to the couple describe the moment: Tyrese, on one knee at midcourt, Jade’s eyes brimming with happy tears, friends and family quietly present. “It just felt right,” Tyrese later told a reporter. “I wanted to start our next chapter exactly where it all began.”
“There’s something beautiful about bringing things full circle,” a close friend of Jade’s shared. “They started at Iowa State, built a life together through every challenge, and now they’re choosing to begin their forever right where it all started.”
Engagement as Inspiration: Love, Resilience, and New Beginnings
The story of Tyrese and Jade is more than a celebrity engagement—it’s a testament to resilience, love, and finding strength in partnership. The outpouring of support from the NBA community reflected not just admiration for Haliburton’s on-court achievements, but also appreciation for the couple’s authenticity.
Former coaches and teammates chimed in with messages of congratulations. “They make each other better,” said a friend from Iowa State. “Jade’s always been his biggest fan—she brings out the kindness and humility in Tyrese.”
Fans noted that their announcement, amidst Tyrese’s injury and recovery process, was especially poignant. It provided a reminder that personal triumphs can coexist with professional challenges—a lesson Haliburton shared openly. “Life can change in an instant,” he told a local newspaper. “I’m grateful to have Jade with me for whatever comes next.”
A Look at Tyrese Haliburton’s Career Achievements
Tyrese Haliburton’s basketball credentials are impressive by any measure. By the time of his engagement, he had already garnered All-Star accolades, was renowned for his playmaking vision, and consistently ranked among NBA leaders in assists per game. With each season, he added to his legacy as a selfless point guard who valued team success above individual stats.
A favorite among teammates, Haliburton was praised by Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle for his maturity and unselfish style. “Tyrese elevates everyone around him,” said Carlisle. “There’s a reason our offense clicks when he’s at the helm—he understands the game at a cerebral level few can match.”
His impact extended beyond statistics. In community projects and youth mentorship programs, Tyrese has been an active participant, using his platform to give back. Whether hosting clinics in his hometown or supporting initiatives in Indiana, his reputation as a leader and role model only continues to grow.
Jade Jones: Life Outside the Spotlight
While Jade has embraced her role as Tyrese’s supporter, she has ambitions and pursuits of her own. After graduating from Iowa State, she pursued a master’s degree in public health, driven by a commitment to wellness and community service. Her career endeavors include work with nonprofit organizations focused on youth mental health and empowerment for young women.
Friends emphasize that Jade isn’t simply “the girlfriend”—she’s Tyrese’s partner in every sense, with her own dreams and impact. As they plan their wedding and new life together, Jade continues to balance a life of purpose and quiet achievement.
In her own words, shared during a podcast interview, Jade reflected on their journey: “We’ve grown up together, in a way. Tyrese’s career has brought us so many experiences, but our foundation is trust, faith, and supporting each other. That’s what really matters.”
Their Relationship: Navigating the Pressures of Fame
Dating and eventually getting engaged as high-profile figures brings pressures, but Tyrese and Jade have been deliberate in preserving their privacy. Despite the public nature of their lives, the couple cherishes quiet moments—movie nights at home, hiking on weekends, or visiting family.
Those closest to them say that their bond is rooted in friendship first. Former college friends paint a picture of two people who, even as the world took notice, always prioritized laughter, honesty, and listening to each other.
“Through every up and down, they never lost sight of who they are, both separately and together,” said a mutual friend. “That’s what makes their partnership so strong.”
Overcoming the Physical and Emotional Demands
Tyrese’s recovery from his Achilles injury is a challenge that will test not only his physical limits but also the strength of their relationship. Rehabilitation requires patience and resilience; for an athlete, months away from the court can be daunting.
Yet Jade has already proven herself an invaluable partner. As Tyrese embarks on the road to recovery, she’s organized a support system of friends and professionals, ensuring he stays focused, positive, and prepared for his comeback.
The NBA’s demanding schedule and the scrutiny of fans and media mean little reprieve for public figures. But Tyrese and Jade’s shared commitment to faith and family keeps them centered.
Celebrating With Loved Ones: The Engagement Party
Following the proposal, the couple hosted an intimate gathering at a local restaurant in Ames, inviting close friends, family members, and mentors from their college days. The evening was one of heartfelt toasts and shared memories. Coaches recounted stories of Tyrese’s early mornings in the gym, friends shared funny anecdotes about their first date, and Jade’s parents spoke about welcoming Tyrese into their family.
Photos from the night quickly circulated among fans, drawing praise for the couple’s humility and gratitude. “They don’t take anything for granted,” said Tyrese’s mother. “Every success is built on years of hard work and mutual respect.”
Hilton Coliseum: More Than an Arena
For Iowa State fans, Hilton Coliseum is hallowed ground. Hosting thousands of passionate fans each season, the arena witnessed Haliburton’s rise as a player and leader. The court itself—where Tyrese and Jade’s story began and where he later proposed—is a powerful symbol of both personal and shared achievement.
Both Tyrese and Jade have been vocal about giving back to the Cyclones community. They’ve returned to campus for charity events, youth camps, and to mentor current students. Their engagement, then, feels like a gift back to the place that gave them their start.
A former Iowa State professor summed up the feeling: “Seeing two of our own take this next step here is incredibly meaningful. It’s a reminder that the bonds we build at this university last long after graduation.”
Social Media Reactions and Broader NBA Community Response
When Tyrese and Jade shared their engagement photos online, congratulations poured in from basketball legends, current stars, college friends, and fans across the country. The comments were filled with well-wishes, heart emojis, and personal anecdotes about how the couple had inspired them—on and off the court.
Notably, several NBA stars acknowledged the importance of having a strong support system. “Behind every great player is someone holding them down when nobody’s watching,” tweeted a former teammate. “So happy for Tyrese and Jade.”
Sports media covered the announcement as more than a celebrity news flash, highlighting the strength and genuine affection on display. Commentators noted that Haliburton’s public gratitude for Jade—paired with her visible support throughout his career—sent a powerful message about partnership and perseverance.
The Future: Ahead for Tyrese and Jade
As Tyrese Haliburton works towards his return to NBA stardom, the engagement with Jade Jones is not just a personal milestone—it’s a testament to hope for the future. Their relationship is one of mutual respect, admiration, and shared purpose.
They’ve spoken about plans to travel during the offseason—visiting both their families, exploring Europe, and volunteering in Jade’s nonprofit circles. Fans eagerly await wedding details, though the couple has made it clear that their priority is enjoying every step of the journey together.
In a recent interview, Tyrese reflected on the road ahead: “We’re just excited. No matter what comes next—good or bad—we’ll handle it together. That’s the most important thing.”
Lessons from Their Love Story
What makes Tyrese and Jade’s story resonate is its relatability—despite their fame, their challenges and triumphs mirror those of couples everywhere. They are open about communicating through disagreements, setting boundaries in a busy world, and nurturing a relationship that’s endured both the spotlight and the tests of everyday life.
As one local columnist wrote, “Their engagement isn’t just sports news—it’s a masterclass in loving with intention, weathering hardship, and celebrating the milestones that matter most.”
A Lasting Legacy, On and Off the Court
Tyrese Haliburton’s professional achievements are many, but those who know him best expect his partnership with Jade Jones to be among his proudest. Together, they’re building a legacy—one that will extend beyond statistics or headlines.
Their engagement marks the next step in a journey grounded in shared values and mutual ambition. As the wedding approaches, surrounded by friends, family, and the extended Iowa State and NBA communities, one thing is clear: Theirs is a story of love and growth, a partnership forged in the fires of challenge and triumph alike.
Congratulations and What’s Next
Congratulations to Tyrese Haliburton and Jade Jones as they begin this exciting new chapter. The future surely holds more honors, achievements, and personal milestones for the couple, but for now, fans everywhere can celebrate a love story that spans courts, classrooms, and the joys and trials of coming of age in the public eye.
As Tyrese prepares to return to basketball and Jade continues her important work, one thing remains constant—their deep respect for one another and a commitment to supporting each other’s dreams.
Their engagement is a reminder that behind every champion is a vital support system, a place that feels like home, and a love story that, like any great legacy, only grows richer over time.
