The label of being overrated may have turned out to be a catalyst for Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton, who has approached the 2025 NBA playoffs with a renewed sense of determination. Following a poll conducted by The Athletic's Sam Amick and Josh Robbins, in which Haliburton was named the most overrated player by his peers, the two-time All-Star has utilized this assessment to fuel his performance on the court. Puma, recognizing the significance of this narrative, has launched a T-shirt emblazoned with the phrase "Overrate That," symbolizing Haliburton's response to his critics.

In a poll that garnered only 90 responses from players, 13 participants identified Haliburton as the most overrated player in the league. Despite the limited sample size, the poll generated significant headlines, amplifying the scrutiny surrounding Haliburton. The 25-year-old guard responded to the criticism with resilience, sharing insights with The Athletic's Jared Weiss. He noted that conversations with respected players like Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers and Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics have fostered within him an "immunity to rejection." Haliburton emphasized the importance of valuing the opinions of peers he admires, stating that while the anonymity of the poll diminishes its impact, the viewpoints of elite players matter greatly to him.

Haliburton's human side is evident, and he can be forgiven for feeling a sting from the overrated label. However, his recent performances, marked by clutch shooting and interactions with opposing fans, suggest that he thrives in moments that challenge his credibility. Regardless of whether the Pacers advance to the NBA Finals or not, the release of the "Overrate That" shirts serves as a reminder of an unforgettable playoff journey, likely solidifying Haliburton's place in the ongoing narrative of his career.