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Former Wildcat T.J. McConnell continues to entertain in Indy

By David Rosen

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - NOVEMBER 03: T.J. McConnell #9 of the Indiana Pacers dribbles the ball in the game against the Chicago Bulls at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on November 03, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - NOVEMBER 03: T.J. McConnell #9 of the Indiana Pacers dribbles the ball in the game against the Chicago Bulls at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on November 03, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
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Former Arizona Wildcat T.J. McConnell is still finding ways to entertain in his fifth season in the NBA, now with the Indiana Pacers.

Still entertaining. What a journey T.J. McConnell has been and it’s not over yet. In his fifth season in the NBA, McConnell has seemed to find a renewed sense of energy with the Indiana Pacers. After playing four seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers, he has found his home Indy. McConnell still doing what he does best, entertain.

With the 76ers he mainly came off the bench and he is doing the same with the Pacers. McConnell has not started but has played in 26 out of 28 games they have played. He has accepted his role as a bench player, which hasn’t stopped him from bringing the energy every time he steps out on the court. As a fan, have to respect McConnell and how his attitude has not changed, even though his role hasn’t really changed since he started playing in the NBA.

In 26 games played, McConnell is averaging 6.7 points per game, 2.6 rebounds per game and 4.9 assists per game. Those might not be staggering stats, but as we have mentioned before McConnell is the type of player that puts up those “stats” that don’t show up in the box score. Even though he is known for that, his stats still are solid.

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The Pacers are without their All-Star player since last January, Victor Oladipo, who might be returning soon, but remain in the sixth position in the Eastern Conference at 19-9.

McConnell has taken full advantage of the increase in minutes. He has been averaging 17.7 minutes per game and when on the floor has made an impact.

This past month, he had five straight games this month in which the Pacers were at least +6 in the plus-minus category. When playing, McConnell sets the tone with his energy and hustle. Those are two traits that truly define who he is.

It doesn’t hurt as well that McConnell still can ball with the best of them. On offense, he always finding ways to get his teammates involved and also get himself a bucket when the opportunity presents itself.

On course on defense, he is all about that hustle. Whether it’s making it really difficult for his opponent, hustling after loose balls, grabbing that defensive rebound, McConnell always gives 110%, have to love that! His style of play and passion for the game of basketball is what makes him still one of the most beloved Arizona Basketball players of all-time.

Whenever the Pacers need a spark, who they go to? T.J. McConnell of course, the energy man!

Must Read. Former Wildcat Deandre Ayton shines in his return with the Suns. light

At Zona Zealots, we are extremely proud of T.J. McConnell and how he is performing with the Indiana Pacers. Back in July, they signed him two a year contract. Hopefully, they see the value in what he brings to the Pacers organization and keep him for a long time. As always, Bear Down, Arizona!

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