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TJ McConnell makes NBA Finals history
Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

TJ McConnell makes NBA Finals history

Originally posted on Ball Exclusives  |  By Titan Frey  |  Last updated Jun 13, 2025 10:43 AM ET

The Indiana Pacers have been on a tear in these NBA playoffs. They keep upsetting the odds and making history. That’s what reserve player TJ McConnell recently did in the NBA Finals.

He made history.

The Pacers took care of business in Game 3 winning 116-107. They now lead the Oklahoma City Thunder 2-1.

In the game, McConnell indeed made history. He became the first bench player to record a stat line of 10 points, five assists, and five steals.

What makes McConnell’s achievement even more impressive is the fact that he accumulated those stats in just 15 minutes of play. If the Pacers want to secure the NBA title, they’ll need players like McConnell to continue stepping up in the big moments.

This article first appeared on Ball Exclusives and was syndicated with permission.

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