Former Wildcat TJ McConnell signs 4-year, $35 million extension

Following yet another terrific season in the NBA, former Wildcat TJ McConnell has signed a four-year, $35 million extension with the Indiana Pacers. 

NBA Free Agency hasn’t been live for even a full day yet, and already off-season action is heating up. Now for us fans of Arizona Basketball, that means a few of our Wildcats are signing new contracts, and in particular, TJ McConnell.

Entering year seven of what has been a rather illustrious NBA career, the Pittsburgh native and former Wildcat signed a massive extension with the Indiana Pacers on Monday afternoon.

Arizona Wildcats

Making news via social media, NBA Insider Shams Charania announced that TJ had signed a four-year, $35 million deal to return to the Pacers and it is well-deserved.

A savvy and talented veteran, former Wildcat TJ McConnell has had an interesting path in getting to where he is at now.

Once considered to be a lowly-ranked two-star recruit that committed to Duquesne out of high school, TJ then transferred to Arizona two years later, becoming a fan favorite in the process.

Quickly becoming known for his tough play, high basketball IQ, and veteran leadership while in Tucson, he may never have been a top player on the Wildcats, however, he always proved his worth in a myriad.

Eventually graduating and earning one of the final spots in the NBA Combine back in 2015, he would unfortunately go undrafted, but has since scratched and clawed his way into being a more-than-suitable bench player.

Fast forward to 2021, and TJ is coming off his best season in the league yet. With the Pacers, TJ finished the year averaging 8.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, 6.6 assists, and 1.9 steals per game in 69 games, including three starts.

Coming into 2021-22, he should continue to have a large role, and we are excited for him. TJ has proven his worth in this league, and the contract is a great reflection of how hard work pays off!