After being voted the NBA’s most overrated player in a poll conducted by The Athletic, Tyrese Haliburton has been fueled by criticism, using the doubters’ words as motivation for his stellar playoff performances.

Now, Puma has immortalized that sentiment with the release of a new T-shirt emblazoned with the phrase “Overrate That”, which dropped just before the Indiana Pacers’ Game 5 against the New York Knicks.

The poll that named Haliburton the most overrated player was based on a relatively small sample—only 90 players responded, and just 13 voted for him. Haliburton decided to embrace it, telling The Athletic’s Jared Weiss that he developed an “immunity to rejection” through conversations with respected peers like Joel Embiid and Jayson Tatum.

“At some point, worrying about what my peers think only holds so much weight,” Haliburton said. “I think my peers [whom] I really respect, that changes things.”

Fueled by criticism

Haliburton’s playoff performances have backed up his confidence. Throughout the postseason, he has hit multiple clutch shots, energized his team with aggressive playmaking, and even engaged in playful banter with opposing fans.

His ability to thrive under pressure has helped the Pacers reach the Eastern Conference Finals and put them on the brink of their first NBA Finals appearance since 2000.

Fans and analysts have noted how the “overrated” tag seems to have motivated Haliburton rather than diminished him. His poise and production in critical moments have silenced many skeptics, turning him into one of the biggest stars of this NBA season.

The bigger picture: overrated or underrated?

The “most overrated player” label is often, as some analysts have pointed out. Haliburton’s response to the label—both on and off the court—demonstrates his confidence and focus. Whether the Pacers win the NBA title or not, the “Overrate That” slogan will remain a memorable symbol of his 2025 playoff journey.

Tyrese Haliburton’s transformation of criticism into motivation, combined with Puma’s bold marketing, highlights his growing influence in the NBA. As the Pacers push deeper into the playoffs, Haliburton’s “Overrate That” mantra is a rallying cry for both the player and his fans.