Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell made headlines when he humbly stated, “I will leave for him to play,” referring to the possible return of a key teammate or star player. Speaking just now in a post-practice media session, McConnell emphasized team-first values over personal ambition—a testament to his professionalism and selfless mindset.
“I just want what’s best for this team,” McConnell said. “If that means stepping aside, I’ll do it without hesitation.” The comment came amid swirling speculation about a high-profile return—possibly Tyrese Haliburton or another playmaker who had been sidelined due to injury. McConnell, known for his relentless hustle and leadership off the bench, has been instrumental in maintaining the team’s tempo and cohesion throughout the season.
His willingness to defer playing time highlights the deep sense of camaraderie and commitment within the Pacers’ locker room. While McConnell has proven his worth time and again with clutch performances and steady floor management, his latest remarks show that he values collective success over individual minutes.
In a league where ego often trumps unity, McConnell’s words resonate loudly: this is a player who leads by example, ready to support his team in whatever role is needed.
