Tyrese Haliburton’s dad receives friendly welcome at NBA Finals Game 1

There were two famous Haliburtons in the Paycom Center — and one of them was not out on the court.

John Haliburton, the father of Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton, seemed to be a Oklahoma City Thunder fan favorite as he walked in the concourse before tipoff Thursday of Game 1 of the NBA Finals. The basketball referee and former women’s basketball coach was approached many times as he stood in a concessions line — by Thunder fans wanting to get their photos taken with him.

He seemed to take it in stride as he posed for photos until a man walking with him asked people to allow him to get his dinner.

Still, another Thunder fan approached the famous dad as he walked away and he acquiesced. One fan patted him on the arm, smiled and wished him luck.

More: Thunder vs Pacers score, live updates: SGA, OKC lead NBA Finals Game 1 at halftime

The elder Haliburton made headlines during the round one playoff series between the Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks because of a confrontation between him and Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo after the Bucks lost the series to the Pacers.

According to the Indy Star, he was effectively suspended from attending the games, due to the confrontation.

Tyrese Haliburton told reporters at NBA Finals media day Wednesday that his father would be in Oklahoma City for the games.

He seemed to receive a warm welcome from Thunder fans.