DONE DEAL: Indiana Pacers Re-Sign T.J. McConnell for NBA Summer League and Beyond Through 2025 Season….

DONE DEAL: Indiana Pacers Re-Sign T.J. McConnell for NBA Summer League and Beyond Through 2025 Season….

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# DONE DEAL: Indiana Pacers Re-Sign T.J. McConnell for NBA Summer League and Beyond Through 2025 Season

**Indianapolis, IN — June 29, 2025**

In a move that underscores their commitment to stability, leadership, and depth at the guard position, the **Indiana Pacers** have officially re-signed veteran point guard **T.J. McConnell** to a contract that extends through the **2025 NBA season**. The deal, which was finalized late Friday evening, ensures McConnell’s return not only for the **NBA Summer League** but also as a key contributor for the regular season and potential playoff run.

According to sources close to the team, the contract is a one-year deal worth approximately **\$5 million**, with incentives tied to games played, assists per game, and team performance milestones.

### A Trusted Leader Returns

McConnell, 33, has long been regarded as one of the most respected locker-room voices in Indiana. Known for his relentless hustle, high basketball IQ, and unselfish style of play, McConnell’s return comes at a crucial time for a Pacers squad looking to build on last season’s promising campaign.

“T.J. is the heart of our team,” said **Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle** in a press statement. “He brings toughness, leadership, and a competitive spirit every time he steps on the floor. We’re thrilled to have him back as we continue to grow as a unit.”

### Summer League Mentor

While Summer League rosters are typically filled with rookies and younger players eager to prove themselves, McConnell’s inclusion is no surprise to those familiar with his character.

The veteran guard will serve as a mentor to Indiana’s 2025 draft picks and recent signees. His role will involve directing the offense, teaching defensive schemes, and setting an example through his trademark energy and work ethic.

“T.J. has been instrumental in developing our younger guys,” said **Pacers general manager Chad Buchanan**. “There’s no better player to guide our Summer League squad and help them adjust to the pace and demands of the NBA.”

### Looking Back at McConnell’s Pacers Journey

McConnell first joined Indiana in the summer of 2019 after four seasons with the **Philadelphia 76ers**. Since then, he has carved out a crucial role as a backup point guard, known for his disruptive defense, ability to push the pace, and court vision.

One of the highlights of his Pacers tenure came during the **2020-2021 season**, when McConnell recorded a **triple-double** that included **10 steals** — making NBA history as one of the few players to achieve that feat.

Over six seasons in Indiana, McConnell has averaged:

* **7.1 points per game**

* **4.9 assists per game**

* **1.2 steals per game**

* While shooting nearly **53%** from the field

His impact, however, goes beyond statistics. Pacers fans have come to appreciate his gritty style, and his name is often chanted at **Gainbridge Fieldhouse** whenever he sparks the team with a key defensive play or a timely basket.

### McConnell Speaks

Shortly after the announcement, McConnell addressed fans and media via social media.

> “I couldn’t be happier to stay in Indiana — this is home for me and my family. I’m excited to get to work this summer and help this team reach new heights. Let’s go, Pacers!”

Sources indicate McConnell had drawn interest from other NBA teams, including the **San Antonio Spurs** and **Orlando Magic**, but his preference was always to remain in Indianapolis, where he has built strong ties both on and off the court.

### What This Means for the Pacers

Bringing back McConnell signals Indiana’s desire to blend veteran leadership with their young core. With **Tyrese Haliburton**, **Bennedict Mathurin**, and **Andrew Nembhard** continuing to emerge, McConnell’s steady presence offers a reliable option off the bench while serving as a mentor to the team’s budding stars.

The Pacers have made it clear they intend to be competitive in the **Eastern Conference** this season. McConnell’s return aligns with that vision, offering depth, experience, and a player who understands the franchise’s culture.

### Fans React

Pacers fans wasted no time sharing their excitement on social media platforms.

> **@PacersPride83**: “T.J. is back!! Love this move. The guy bleeds blue and gold.”

>

> **@IndyBasketballFan**: “McConnell may not fill the stat sheet every night, but he does all the little things. Welcome back, T.J.!”

Local sports radio shows also praised the deal, calling it a “smart, no-brainer move” that bolsters the team’s depth chart.

### Next Steps

McConnell will report to **Pacers Summer League training camp** in early July. The Pacers’ first Summer League game tips off in Las Vegas on **July 8**, where McConnell is expected to play limited minutes while focusing on orchestrating the offense and mentoring the team’s rookies, including first-round pick **Jared Simmons** (the dynamic point-forward out of Kansas).

Following the Summer League, McConnell will take a brief break before joining the team for its official preseason camp in September.

### Final Thoughts

In an offseason filled with blockbuster trades and free agency surprises, the Pacers’ re-signing of T.J. McConnell might not dominate national headlines. But for Indiana, it represents something invaluable: **continuity, character, and commitment**.

As the 2025 NBA season approaches, Pacers fans can rest easy knowing that one of their most beloved players will be wearing blue and gold for at least another year — diving for loose balls, hounding opposing guards, and doing whatever it takes to help his team win.

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