T.J. McConnell has been phenomenal in his assigned role for the Indiana Pacers lately.
The star backup point guard perfectly played his part while Tyrese Haliburton needed a helping hand as he struggled with a calf injury.
And it was much with his efforts that the Pacers forced a Game 7 in the NBA Finals with a 108-91 victory over the Thunder.
McConnell had a great contributing night as he scored 12 points, grabbed nine rebounds, provided six assists, and recorded four steals. His performance has placed him among the elite in the context of the WPIAL and City League.
He also became only the second player in their history to achieve at least 10 points and nine rebounds in an NBA Finals game. The atmosphere was electric at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, where fans rallied behind T.J. McConnell, chanting his name during the game.
However, during the post-game proceedings, his father, Tim McConnell, interrupted T.J.’s interview to express his pride in his son’s achievements.
“I can’t be more proud to say I have a son in the NBA, and I have a daughter in the WNBA. This is a dream come true,” McConnell Sr. said.
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THIS MOMENT WITH T.J. MCCONNELL'S DAD 🥹
— NBA (@NBA) June 20, 2025
"I can't be more proud to say I have a son in the NBA and a daughter in the WNBA… this is a dream come true." pic.twitter.com/1ef0WiI8vj
Additionally, the conversation went a step further. When someone from the interview panel poked McConnell Sr., saying he’s harder on his son and softer on his daughter, he had the most precious reaction.
“My daughter was an undefeated state champion, he lost in the state championship. We lost two games, so the undefeated champion and him(with an unjust expression),” he added.
Having now secured a Game 7, the Pacers are set to travel to Oklahoma City with the prospect of winning the championship for the first time in their history.
Tyrese Haliburton Nicknamed T.J. McConnell After Game 6 Heroic
The Indiana Pacers delivered an impressive performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 6 of the NBA Finals, with
T.J. McConnell stepped up as a standout player during the Pacers’ latest victory against the Thunder. Typically, Tyrese Haliburton has been leading the team so far; however, Haliburton played with an injured calf. And that made McConnell’s contributions even more critical.
"He's the Great White Hope"
— CJ Fogler 🫡 (@cjzero) June 20, 2025
Tyrese Haliburton on TJ McConnell pic.twitter.com/9LP824JfM9
Following the game, Haliburton humorously referred to McConnell as the “Great White Hope.” The star point guard nicknamed his teammate in all love. Tyrese shared this nickname during a national broadcast on ABC.
However, during the 17-point victory, T.J. McConnell excelled off the bench. His performance allowed Haliburton to conserve energy, as Haliburton played only 22 minutes during this crucial game.
