T.J. McConnell, being undrafted, is rarely in the spotlight and doesn’t fit the shape of a modern NBA star. But inside the Indiana Pacers locker room, he makes a presence as one of the most important players on the team. In a league full of big plays and flashy shots, T.J. McConnell built a 10-year career with hard work, energy, and hustle.
The 32-year-old signed a four-year, $45 million extension with the Pacers, making an easy decision for both sides. He joined the Pacers in 2019 and became one of the league’s top backup point guards, delivering consistency, leadership, and game-altering defense. He went undrafted in 2015 but set an NBA record with nine steals in a half and made history with a triple-double off the bench.
When you're 6'1", it's easy to be overlooked.
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) June 1, 2025
But TJ McConnell has made a 10-year NBA career out of pure energy, chaos, and ferocious defense.
Undrafted in 2015, he worked hard to earn a spot on the 76ers' opening night roster that season.
He played 4 years for the Sixers in… pic.twitter.com/7U5ZtGrtib
Last season, he posted career-best numbers with 10.2 points, 5.5 assists, and a steal per game in 71 appearances, starting only four. He stepped up even more in the playoffs, scoring 11.8 points per game off the bench. His strong play proved how valuable he is to the Pacers.
T.J. McConnell With His Never Ending Spirit
McConnell’s impact goes far beyond the box score.m“My motor is my superpower,” he told. “I stay in elite shape. That’s what separates me from others. I pick (my opponents) up at mid-court and stay on them. I made a name for myself that way. It’s my calling card.”
That motor fueled a series of incredible milestones. T.J. McConnell holds the NBA record for most steals in a half and is the first bench player to record a triple-double with points, assists, and steals. Moreover, he played 69 or more games in nine of his ten seasons, an experiment in his durability and consistency.
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Even the NBA all-time legend gave him a shoutout on his podcast a year ago, calling T.J. McConnell one of his favourite players in the league.
As the Pacers head to the NBA finals, T.J. McConnell’s journey from undrafted to playoff X factor is one of the most compelling stories in basketball. He’s not the Pacers’ biggest name, but the most significant tone setter. With other prominent stars on the team, McConnell ensures a consistent tempo and no quit in the Indiana Pacers.
