Former Iowa State point guard Tyrese Haliburton is putting his gratitude for his alma mater into action. The NBA All‑Star has announced a free‑ticket lottery exclusively for current Iowa State University students, granting access to the student section for the Indiana Pacers’ preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
How to Enter the Lottery
Students can submit their names online through a dedicated portal set up by Haliburton’s team. The lottery will be drawn shortly after the entry window closes, and winners will receive a pair of tickets to sit in the student section at Hilton Coliseum on Wednesday, Oct. 7, when the Pacers face the Timberwolves at 6 p.m.
Why This Matters to the Community
Haliburton’s gesture aligns with the values of family, faith, and liberty that many in the Ames community hold dear. By offering a free, family‑friendly entertainment option, he supports local traditions of gathering together for sport and fellowship. The event also provides an affordable way for students to experience professional basketball without the financial burden that often accompanies ticket purchases.
For many families, especially those balancing tuition costs and living expenses, a free night out at a major sporting event is a rare blessing. The lottery underscores the importance of giving back to the community that helped shape a young athlete’s career, reinforcing the principle that success is best celebrated when shared.
Game Details and Historical Context
The Pacers‑Timberwolves matchup marks the first NBA preseason game ever held in Ames since 2018, when the Minnesota Timberwolves played the Milwaukee Bucks at the same venue. That 2018 contest ended with the Bucks winning 125‑107, highlighted by Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 21 points. This year’s game offers a fresh opportunity for local fans to witness NBA talent up close, especially after Haliburton’s own recovery from an Achilles injury that sidelined him for the 2025‑26 NBA season.
Haliburton, who missed the entire 2025‑26 season after injuring his Achilles in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, has returned to form and is eager to reconnect with the Cyclone community that first nurtured his basketball dreams.
Impact on Local Businesses
Beyond the excitement on the court, the event is expected to boost nearby businesses. Restaurants, coffee shops, and retail stores in downtown Ames often see increased traffic on game nights, providing a welcome economic lift for owners and employees. Fans typically gather before and after the game, creating a lively atmosphere that benefits the local economy.
What Students Should Know
Students who win the lottery should plan to arrive early to secure their seats in the student section, as the venue will fill quickly. Parking at Hilton Coliseum is limited, so carpooling or using public transportation is recommended. The game will be a family‑friendly event, with no alcohol sales in the student area, ensuring a safe environment for all attendees.
Haliburton’s initiative demonstrates how professional athletes can use their platform to support education, community, and the next generation of leaders. By giving back to Iowa State, he not only honors his own roots but also reinforces the importance of giving back to the places that helped shape us.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
