BREAKING: “I WE NOT LEAVE” — Tyrese Haliburton Injury Raises Concerns, But Five-Star Recruit Myles Turner Stuns NBA World, Decommits from Bucks, Chooses Indiana Pacers in Loyalty-Fueled Decision
In a week filled with unexpected twists and emotional declarations, the Indiana Pacers franchise finds itself at the center of one of the NBA’s most compelling off-season sagas. Star guard Tyrese Haliburton is officially deemed “not fit to play” due to a lingering knee injury, casting a shadow over the Pacers’ immediate future. But just as doubts began to emerge around the team’s trajectory, five-star high school phenom Myles Turner shocked the basketball world — not only turning down a reported $6.5 million NIL-style endorsement deal tied to the Milwaukee Bucks but also officially decommitting from Milwaukee and choosing to join the Pacers.
And it all began with a powerful declaration that instantly went viral: “I we not leave.”
This defiant, if grammatically jarring, statement came from Myles Turner during a surprise press conference streamed live on social media. Turner, known for his loyalty and competitive fire, emotionally announced that despite Haliburton’s injury and the uncertainty around the Pacers’ 2025 campaign, he would stay true to Indiana.
“People think we jump ship when things go bad. But I don’t leave just because Haliburton’s hurt. I we not leave. This is bigger than the money, bigger than a quick ring. This is legacy,” Turner said, eyes wet with tears.
The Haliburton Injury Fallout
The news of Tyrese Haliburton being ruled “unfit to play” for the rest of the season has rocked Indiana’s front office and fans alike. Team doctors confirmed that Haliburton’s ongoing knee inflammation has worsened, and while surgery isn’t yet on the table, rest and extended rehab are mandatory. The star point guard, who averaged 21.2 points and 10.8 assists this season, was the engine behind the Pacers’ rise in the Eastern Conference standings.
With Haliburton sidelined indefinitely, analysts and fans speculated that potential free agents or high-level prospects would rethink committing to Indiana. The uncertainty surrounding the franchise’s leadership on the court was expected to have a ripple effect on recruitment and roster cohesion.
Enter Myles Turner.
A Decision That Defied Logic — and Money
The 18-year-old recruit — not to be confused with the veteran NBA player of the same name — is widely considered one of the top three prospects in the nation. With an NBA-ready body, 6’11” frame, elite shot-blocking instincts, and a versatile perimeter game, Turner was projected to be a day-one impact player. Multiple franchises, including the Heat, Warriors, and notably the Bucks, had reportedly made aggressive NIL-style sponsorship pitches to the young star.
The Milwaukee Bucks were believed to be in the lead, offering a reported $6.5 million in total NIL-style endorsements and branding opportunities — the largest such proposal ever presented to a high school recruit under the NBA’s new pre-draft development model.
But for Turner, it wasn’t about the check.
“I got love for Milwaukee. They offered a lot. But loyalty can’t be bought,” he said. “I believe in Indiana. I believe in Tyrese. He’s down now, but he’ll be back. And when he is, we’re going to run the East.”
Pacers’ Culture Wins
Turner’s decision is being hailed as a major victory for Indiana’s culture and front office. President Kevin Pritchard and head coach Rick Carlisle have long emphasized building a culture of loyalty, resilience, and team-first mentality — values that clearly resonated with Turner.
While Haliburton’s absence will be felt, Turner’s arrival injects hope and momentum into the franchise. He is expected to train with the Pacers’ G-League affiliate while preparing for a full NBA debut in the upcoming season.
Social media exploded following Turner’s emotional declaration. “I we not leave” has already become a rallying cry for Pacers fans, trending on X (formerly Twitter) and spawning memes, t-shirts, and fan art within hours.
What’s Next for Indiana?
With Haliburton focused on recovery and Turner now set to don the blue and gold, the Pacers are crafting a narrative built on loyalty and perseverance. The front office is expected to pursue a veteran guard in free agency to support the backcourt while Haliburton rehabs, but the bigger story is clear: Indiana just landed the most loyal five-star talent in the nation.
And in a league often dominated by superteams, quick trades, and cash grabs, that loyalty might be the biggest win of all.
As Turner put it:
