T.J. McConnell
Undrafted point guard who became a key playmaker for the Indiana Pacers.
T.J. McConnell is an American professional basketball player for the Indiana Pacers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Duquesne Dukes and the Arizona Wildcats. After going undrafted, McConnell joined the Philadelphia 76ers in 2015 and spent four seasons with the team before signing with the Pacers in 2019.
- Position
- Point Guard
- Jersey Number
- 9
- Height
- 6'1"
- Key Attribute
- Ball Handling & Defense
- Status
- Active Player (2024-25 Season)
- Previous Team
- Philadelphia 76ers
Lore & Background
McConnell attended Chartiers Valley High School in Pennsylvania, where he played for his father and earned first-team all-state honors. He transferred from Duquesne to Arizona in 2012 to compete for a national championship. He went undrafted in the 2015 NBA draft and joined the Philadelphia 76ers. In 2019, he signed with the Indiana Pacers. On December 18, 2024, he became the 34th Arizona Wildcat inducted into the Arizona Basketball Ring of Honor.
In Their Own Story
The park sits quietly on the banks of the Merced River, about two miles northeast of Livingston. Anglers cast lines for catfish, black bass and perch. Families gather at picnic tables, children run through play areas, and campers settle in for the night. The land was once homesteaded by Thomas McConnell, and the park carries his name. But in January 2008, the park was listed among 48 California state parks proposed for closure by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger as part of a deficit reduction program.
Reader's Guide
McConnell is a point guard known for his playmaking and defense. He holds the NBA record for most steals in a half (9). He has recorded multiple triple-doubles, including the first triple-double off the bench in Philadelphia 76ers history. He signed a four-year, $45 million contract extension with the Pacers on August 30, 2024.
Did You Know?
- McConnell broke the NBA record for most steals in a half with 9 on March 3, 2021.
- He is the first player in Philadelphia 76ers history to record a triple-double off the bench.
- McConnell scored a career-high 30 points on December 8, 2024, in a loss to the Charlotte Hornets.
- He led the NBA in assists:turnover ratio (4.48) during the 2025–26 season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is T.J. McConnell with the Kings?
He is a veteran point guard who wore number 9 for the franchise during the 2023-24 season. Known for his tenacious defense and elite ball-handling, he served as a key backup floor general before departing the organization.
What role did T.J. McConnell play?
He brought relentless energy to the backcourt while applying constant pressure on opposing defenders. His primary job was facilitating offense with superior handling skills and maintaining poise during clutch moments.
Is T.J. McConnell still playing for Sacramento?
No, he is currently a former player following his tenure during the 2023-24 season. While he contributed to the team's identity at the time, he has since left Sacramento to pursue other opportunities.
Why was T.J. McConnell important to the Kings?
His presence stabilized the point guard position during a period of transition and added playmaking ability in crucial moments. Fans appreciated his high basketball IQ, which complemented the team's faster style of play.
Where did T.J. McConnell play before Sacramento?
Prior to arriving in California, he played for the Philadelphia 76ers where he established a reputation as a defensive specialist. He brought that same veteran experience and floor general style with him when he signed with the Kings.
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