WWE expects more NBA crossover action when schedule allows

WWE has often brought stars from other sports into the ring, capitalizing on their fan base and crossover appeal. Two notable NBA players, Tyrese Haliburton and Jalen Brunson, have recently made headlines with their possible involvement with WWE.

The rivalry between the Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks took an unexpected turn on Friday night at WWE SmackDown. Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton, an avid wrestling fan, accompanied Logan Paul to the ring for a Money in the Bank qualifier against LA Knight and Santos Escobar, drawing boos from the Madison Square Garden crowd.

During the match, Haliburton wore a “Tyrese 3:17” shirt, a reference to Stone Cold Steve Austin’s famous quote and the Indianapolis area code. He had a heated argument with Knicks star Jalen Brunson, who was sitting ringside at MSG. Haliburton put on brass knuckles, prompting Brunson to jump over the barrier and confront him, prompting WWE officials to intervene and separate the two NBA All-Stars.

PW Insider reported that WWE sees potential for greater involvement of these NBA stars on future shows, and they seemed to be leaving open the possibility of continuing their feud.

“WWE expects Tyrese Haliburton and Jalen Brunson to appear on shows in the future when it is convenient for both parties.”

With WWE events like the Royal Rumble coming to Indianapolis next year, it’s entirely possible that Haliburton will have home-field advantage. This integration of the Pacers-Knicks rivalry into WWE programming adds an exciting dynamic to the shows.