Oshkosh Native and Indiana Pacers Star Tyrese Haliburton Announces Engagement to Longtime College Sweetheart Jade Jones in Heartwarming Moment.

Tyrese Haliburton, the charismatic All-Star guard of the Indiana Pacers and a proud native of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, recently shared a life milestone off the court that’s captured hearts across the basketball world. The 24-year-old NBA standout announced his engagement to longtime girlfriend and college sweetheart, Jade Jones. The news has drawn warm reactions from fans, fellow athletes, and members of the Oshkosh and Indiana communities alike.

The engagement, which took place during a private vacation in the Caribbean earlier this summer, was confirmed via Haliburton’s Instagram. The couple shared a series of heartfelt photos—one showing Haliburton on one knee, and another with Jade joyfully flashing her engagement ring. The caption read simply: “Forever with you 💍❤️.”

While Haliburton’s play on the court has earned him national attention, it’s his authenticity and commitment to his roots and loved ones that have made him a fan favorite off the court.

From Oshkosh to NBA Stardom

Tyrese Haliburton’s journey to NBA stardom is a quintessential Midwest success story. Growing up in Oshkosh, he starred at Oshkosh North High School, where he led his team to a state title and was named Wisconsin’s Mr. Basketball. Known for his high IQ, selfless play, and leadership qualities, Haliburton took his talents to Iowa State, where he quickly became one of the most talked-about players in the Big 12.

After declaring for the 2020 NBA Draft, Haliburton was selected 12th overall by the Sacramento Kings. His impact was immediate, earning All-Rookie First Team honors. In 2022, he was traded to the Indiana Pacers in a deal that stunned many fans—but ultimately became a franchise-defining moment for Indiana. Since then, he’s emerged as the face of the Pacers, earning All-Star selections and leading the team back into playoff contention.

Amid all that, his relationship with Jade Jones remained a constant presence in his life—a bond that began in college and has flourished through the highs and lows of NBA life.

Who is Jade Jones?

Jade Jones, 24, is more than just Haliburton’s fiancée. A former Iowa State student, Jones studied sports and recreation management, where she and Haliburton first met. Described by friends as thoughtful, driven, and grounded, Jade maintained a relatively private life despite dating one of the NBA’s rising stars.

“She’s been there through everything,” Haliburton once said in an interview during his rookie year. “College, the draft process, the move to California, and then to Indiana. She’s my rock.”

Jade has also remained active in community engagement efforts with the Pacers, working with youth and wellness programs during team-sponsored events in Indianapolis. She has expressed a passion for mental health awareness and women’s sports empowerment.

“She’s the real MVP,” Haliburton joked at a recent charity event. “Seriously, though, she’s always supported me and helped keep me grounded.”

Engagement Details: An Intimate Celebration

Sources close to the couple say the proposal was planned for months and timed just right—after the conclusion of Haliburton’s 2025 playoff run with the Pacers. Although the Pacers fell short of a deep playoff push, Haliburton said the offseason gave him the perfect chance to take this big step.

He planned a surprise dinner on the beach at sunset during their Caribbean vacation. As the couple walked down a lantern-lit path on the sand, Haliburton popped the question with a custom-designed engagement ring from a jeweler in Milwaukee.

“She was completely surprised,” said a close friend of the couple. “He made it perfect—just the two of them, private and romantic. It was very ‘Tyrese.’ Thoughtful and heartfelt.”

Fans and teammates quickly flooded social media with congratulations. NBA stars like Anthony Edwards, LaMelo Ball, and De’Aaron Fox commented with emojis and well-wishes. The Indiana Pacers posted a congratulatory tweet, adding, “Love is in the air 💍 Congrats to Tyrese and Jade!”

Community Pride in Oshkosh

Back in Oshkosh, news of the engagement was met with pride and celebration. Local news outlets ran front-page stories, and Haliburton’s high school coach, Brad Weber, shared his thoughts.

“Tyrese was always a special player, but he’s an even better person,” Weber said. “To see him achieve all this and stay so humble—it’s inspiring. Everyone in Oshkosh is proud of him.”

Local businesses even put up congratulatory messages on marquees. One bakery offered a special “Ty & Jade” cupcake, and the Oshkosh YMCA tweeted: “From our gym to the NBA—and now to the altar. Congratulations Tyrese & Jade!”

The engagement has sparked renewed excitement around Haliburton’s story in his hometown. “He represents the best of what Oshkosh can produce,” said a local resident. “Success, integrity, and loyalty.”

What This Means for the Couple—and the Pacers

Though still young, Haliburton’s career is entering a new phase. The commitment off the court may translate into even more stability and leadership on it. As he prepares to return from a minor offseason knee procedure, Haliburton is expected to lead a hungry Pacers squad looking to capitalize on their core group, including Bennedict Mathurin, Myles Turner, and recent draft pick KJ Simpson.

With Jade by his side, Haliburton says he’s ready for the challenges ahead—on and off the court.

“Life moves fast, especially in the league,” he said during a podcast appearance last week. “But when you have someone who’s been with you through it all, it gives you balance. I feel lucky.”

Wedding Plans and What’s Next

The couple has yet to set a public wedding date, but sources say they’re eyeing a summer 2026 ceremony, possibly in Wisconsin or a private destination location. They’ve reportedly already begun the planning process and are focused on keeping the event intimate with close friends, family, and teammates.

As for basketball, Haliburton is preparing to rejoin Pacers training camp in early September with the goal of reaching the postseason’s second round for the first time in his career. While expectations are high, the All-Star guard says he’s as motivated as ever.

“This offseason has been about healing and reflection,” he said. “Physically, I’m getting right. Mentally and emotionally, I’m in the best place I’ve ever been. I’m ready.”

And with Jade Jones now set to be his life partner, Haliburton is entering this next phase of adulthood with clarity, purpose, and a renewed sense of joy.

Tyrese Haliburton’s engagement to Jade Jones is more than a feel-good moment for the NBA world—it’s a reminder that even amidst the high-stakes, high-profile life of professional sports, genuine love stories can still blossom.

Whether you’re a Pacers fan, a Wisconsin native, or just someone who appreciates stories of personal growth and loyalty, this milestone is a testament to the values Haliburton has carried with him since his days in Oshkosh.

As he steps into a new chapter—both personally and professionally—Haliburton remains a beacon of what it means to stay true to your roots while rising to greatness.