What an amazing season from T.J. McConnell.
At the beginning of the season, Coach Carlisle had to have a tough conversation with him to let him know he wouldn’t be in the 10-man rotation.
McConnell didn’t agree with Carlisle’s decision, but instead of sulking and hanging his head, he understood how special of a talent Andrew Nembhard is and gave his full support to the decision and continued to be a mentor for him.
As Nembhard battled injuries early in the season, McConnell regained the backup point guard spot and did it with excellence. He played the best basketball of his career and continued to display his leadership.
His energy and approach to the game never changed. Whether the Pacers were playing on a random Tuesday night against the Washington Wizards, or facing the New York Knicks in a Game 7 of the Eastern Semifinals, he left it all on the floor and exhibited what makes him special.
Fast forward 8 months & he was able to prove that he is the BEST backup point guard in the NBA as he led this Pacers bench on their ride to the Eastern Conference Finals. He averaged 15 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.3 assists per game and shot 50% from the field in just 24 minutes per game in the East Finals.
I have the utmost respect for T.J. McConnell. He epitomizes what Pacers basketball is all about.
This was for MEMENTO. This was for BATMAN BEGINS. This was for THE PRESTIGE. This was for INCEPTION. This was for INTERSTELLAR. This was for DUNKIRK. This was for OPPENHEIMER.
But most importantly, this was for THE DARK KNIGHT.
The greatest filmmaker of the 21st Century.