TJ McConnell, who initially caught the attention of NBA fans after going undrafted from Arizona, made a significant impact during his tenure with the Philadelphia 76ers. Known for his grit and determination, McConnell quickly became a fan favorite as he embodied the essence of “The Process.” Over four seasons with the Sixers, he averaged 6.4 points, 4.7 assists, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.3 steals, contributing to the team’s remarkable transformation from a struggling franchise to a contender, reaching the Eastern Conference finals in 2019.
Now playing for the Indiana Pacers, McConnell recently reflected on his time in Philadelphia during an episode of “The Young Man and the Three” podcast. He expressed deep gratitude towards the Sixers’ fanbase, stating, “That crowd. Playing in front of them, it was pretty incredible. People to this day just walking anywhere, we miss you in Philly. They show a lot of love so I got a lot of love for the fans of Philadelphia for sure.”
As the Pacers prepare for Game 2 of their Eastern Conference semifinals against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where they currently lead the series 1-0, McConnell is eager to contribute to the team’s quest for their first NBA title. His journey from undrafted player to a valued team member showcases the possibilities that hard work and perseverance can bring in the competitive landscape of professional basketball.
This positive trajectory reflects not only McConnell’s personal growth but also the spirit of resilience that defines the league. Fans can look forward to seeing how he continues to shine on the court as he aims to help lead the Pacers to success.