T.J. McConnell Ignites Pacers’ Game-Changing Playoff Surge—Stats, Viral Highlights & What’s Next

Indiana Pacers reserve guard T.J. McConnell has turned the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals into a personal showcase, proving once again that hustle can shift playoff narratives. Through the first two games against the New York Knicks, the 33-year-old sparkplug averaged 10 points, 3 assists and 2 steals in only 14 minutes per night, sparking consecutive road victories that flipped home-court advantage to Indiana. Key Phrase: McConnell’s full-court pressure fuels Pacers’ playoff surge McConnell’s calling card is relentless 94-foot defense. Knicks swingman Josh Hart, who famously dubbed him an “annoying little s–t,” watched the undersized guard hound Jalen Brunson into late-clock possessions while darting into passing lanes for momentum-changing steals. Coach Rick Carlisle praised McConnell’s “defiance” and said the Pacers “need the same effort” as the series shifts to Indianapolis for Game 3. Key Phrase: “Playing hard is a skill” — McConnell’s viral message The veteran’s surge comes days after his appearance on the Athletes Untapped podcast went viral. McConnell told young players that “playing hard is a skill,” detailing how picking up opponents full-court extended his undrafted career to a full decade. The clip flooded social platforms just as his playoff heroics hit national TV, making him one of Google’s fastest-rising NBA searches this week. Key Phrase: Stat sheet value beyond the box score In 14 postseason games, McConnell is shooting 51 percent from the field and 37 percent from three while ranking first among Conference Finals reserves in deflections per 36 minutes. His frenetic pace has also allowed Tyrese Haliburton extra rest, a critical factor as Indiana pursues its first NBA Finals berth since 2000. Key Phrase: From undrafted to indispensable McConnell entered the league in 2015 after stops at Duquesne and Arizona, went undrafted, and carved out a niche with Philadelphia before signing a four-year pact with Indiana. Over 10 seasons he has averaged 7.6 points, 4.9 assists and 1.4 steals, but his impact this spring is drawing comparisons to classic postseason X-factors who swing series with energy alone. What’s next Game 3 tips at Gainbridge Fieldhouse tonight. If McConnell’s trademark steals and mid-range floaters continue to fluster New York, Indiana could seize a commanding 3-0 lead—and the NBA world may finally place permanent respect on the name T.J. McConnell, the Pacers guard redefining how far sheer effort can carry a team in the 2025 NBA Playoffs.