Former Wildcat TJ McConnell records Triple-Double

CLEVELAND, OHIO - MARCH 03: T.J. McConnell #9 of the Indiana Pacers shoots over Jarrett Allen #31 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the third quarter at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on March 03, 2021 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO - MARCH 03: T.J. McConnell #9 of the Indiana Pacers shoots over Jarrett Allen #31 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the third quarter at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on March 03, 2021 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

CLEVELAND, OH – Sparked by a Triple-Double performance from former Wildcat TJ McConnell, the Indiana Pacers (15-18) came away with the 114-111 win. 

In Cleveland, the home of the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame and the NBA’s Cavaliers, it was former Wildcat TJ McConnell that was rocking on Wednesday nights action of NBA games.

A beloved and efficient bench player for the Indiana Pacers, the six-year NBA veteran had a historic night as he helped to deliver a win to his ball club.

Arizona Wildcats
Arizona Wildcats /

Arizona Wildcats

Once again serving as a key role player, McConnell came off the bench on Wednesday evening against the Cavaliers, breaking an NBA record as he was credited for nine steals in the first half alone.

However, just as we grew accustomed to in Tucson, McConnell can do it on both ends of the floor, and it wasn’t just his defense that was turning heads.

The savvy and crafty NBA Veteran finished the evening with an impressive 16 points on a perfect 8-8 shooting night, to go along with 13 assists, four rebounds, and a block!

Of course that would all be outdone by his impressive 10 steals in the game. After recording nine in the first half, TJ would have to wait until late into the game, before getting his chance.

Leading 108-106 with just 1:09 to play, Cleveland’s Dylan Windler would dribble the ball up court only to be met by Indiana’s Malcolm Brogdon right around half court. Looking to pass to teammate Collin Sexton, Dylan would let an errant pass get away from him, allowing for McConnell to reach in and poke the ball away.

The sequence of events would allow for the Pacers to make the fast break bucket and eventually earn the 114-111 win.

Thanks in large part to the aggressive and opportunistic play of McConnell, the Pacers came away with the much-needed victory and were undoubtedly sparked by the ever-rare Triple Double.

Watch the recap from the Pacers’ thrilling win in Cleveland!

On Arizona Basketball. light. More