Just hours before tipoff in one of the most important games in Indiana Pacers history, the tension inside Gainbridge Fieldhouse was briefly replaced by something a little sweeter. On Friday night, June 13, with the Pacers holding a 2–1 edge over the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Finals , it was Obi Toppin ’s daughter, Remi, who set the tone. Sprinting across the court with zero hesitation, she leapt into the arms of Tyrese Haliburton , delivering an unplanned but heart-melting moment that reminded everyone, basketball is family.

Obi Toppin’s daughter steals the spotlight before Indiana Pacers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Game 4
There’s something special brewing in Indianapolis—not just on the scoreboard, but behind the scenes, too. As  made his way to the floor for warmups on Friday, he was greeted not by a teammate or coach, but by three feet of pure joy in sneakers. Remi Toppin , the daughter of forward  , came charging toward the Pacers star, arms wide open. Haliburton scooped her up in a hug, smiling widely as cameras captured the heartfelt exchange.

“She’s always around,” Haliburton said courtside, just moments before getting locked in for Game 4. “I’m just lucky her dad’s on the team.”

Haliburton and Toppin have built real chemistry since the latter was acquired from the Knicks in July of 2023. That on-court connection—marked by highlight-reel lobs and fast-break finishes—has extended off the floor, where Toppin’s daughter has become a regular presence during practices and warmups. In a postseason defined by grit and pressure, she’s become something of a secret weapon: a reminder to breathe, smile, and enjoy the ride.

Earlier that evening, another adorable moment unfolded when Toppin was left hanging mid–high-five attempt. Sitting courtside, he reached out as Remi dribbled a ball nearby. She glanced at him, then kept hooping. “My bad, you got it,” Toppin laughed, waving it off like any dad who knows the game comes second to their kid’s focus.

Remi might not be on the roster, but it’s clear she’s part of the team.