Tyrese Haliburton Proposes to Longtime Girlfriend Jade Jones at Iowa State, Where Their Love Story Began

Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton has proposed to his longtime girlfriend, Jade Jones, at Iowa State University's Hilton Coliseum, the venue where their love story first began in 2019. The heartfelt moment has captured the attention of fans and the wider basketball world.

Why Proposing at Iowa State Was So Meaningful

Haliburton, 24, is recovering from a torn Achilles tendon that will keep him out of the entire 2025–2026 NBA season. Despite this challenge, he organised a deeply personal proposal. According to ESPN, the guard knelt at centre court, surrounded by rose petals and illuminated letters asking: 'Will you marry me?'

On Instagram, Haliburton posted: 'The place where our story started, and where our next chapter begins'. Jones responded with equal excitement: 'Future Mrs. What the Hali'.

From College Sweethearts to a Six-Year Relationship

The couple met at Iowa State in 2019, when Haliburton played for the Cyclones and Jones was a cheerleader. During his standout final season, he averaged 15.2 points, 6.5 assists and 2.5 steals per game, helping him secure a spot in the NBA draft. Jones has been by his side through each career milestone, including two All-Star selections and an Olympic appearance in Paris 2024.

The proposal comes shortly after their six-year anniversary in April 2025, marked by Haliburton's message: '6 years, countless memories, and a lifetime to go'.

How Fans and Players Reacted to the Engagement

The couple's engagement quickly drew a wave of congratulations. WNBA star Caitlin Clark and Pacers teammate Myles Turner were among those who sent public messages of support.

One fan commented online: 'It's beautiful they went back to where it all started'. This highlights how fans relate to the emotional grounding of the proposal at Iowa State.

Balancing Love and a Career-Threatening Injury

Haliburton's proposal came at a time of uncertainty, his torn Achilles will require 9–12 months of rehabilitation, costing him at least 82 NBA games and approximately £3.2 million ($4.1 million) in potential bonuses.

By focusing on his personal happiness during this challenging period, Haliburton has shown a level of resilience admired by fans.

What's Next for Tyrese Haliburton and Jade Jones?

While the couple has yet to confirm a wedding date, their engagement shows how strongly they value their shared history. Jones described the proposal as a dream come true, proudly showing off her engagement ring.

Haliburton's career earnings now exceed £30 million ($38.4 million), but this milestone proves that his most important investment has been his relationship with Jones.

Why Their Love Story Resonates Beyond Basketball

This story is about more than a star athlete's engagement. Jade Jones has consistently supported Tyrese Haliburton through injuries, international competitions and the immense pressures of the NBA. From his early days at Iowa State to his rise as an All-Star guard, she has been a constant presence, often attending games courtside and celebrating career milestones alongside him.

She also stood by him during challenging moments, such as his Achilles injury and intense rehabilitation period, offering unwavering encouragement that has been visible to fans on social media.

As their relationship has evolved from college sweethearts to life partners, Haliburton and Jones have become a reminder that success off the court can be just as meaningful as achievements on it.