TJ McConnell, who took the spotlight in Game 5 of a Finals series full of brilliant performances and changing momentum. Though Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Tyrese Haliburton have grabbed the most attention, McConnell’s blazing three-pointer and forceful yell, “You have to guard me! “, provided the most electrifying moment of the night for fans.
Although Indiana might have missed the final box score, McConnell’s moment could be remembered as a water splash moment in the Pacers’ attitude.
TJ McConnell’s Quarter Lights Up Game 5
Midway through the third quarter, when Indiana was battling to keep up, TJ McConnell joined the crowd right away. He yelled, “You have to guard me! ” after sinking a wide-open three-pointer and turned to the Thunder bench. The message was a wake-up call for the whole field, not only for the defense. McConnell’s energy resulted in points 13 for the quarter and significant effort plays.
Though usually not the first option, McConnell’s confidence made the Thunder change mid-game. The Finals spotlight belonged to him for a while, and he showed a poise and fire that Pacers fans will never forget anytime soon.
TJ McConnell’s spark
After Game 5, the Thunder held firm despite McConnell’s heroics, finishing out the game 120-109 to lead the series 3–2. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributing 31 points and 10 assists in another effective performance, Jalen Williams went for 40 points. Their composure under duress allowed OKC to hold out against the Indiana surge. Tyrese Haliburton, however, could only score 4 points as a result of his calf injury, clearly disturbing the Pacers’ rhythm and spacing.
The Pacers routed the Thunder 108–91 on Friday in Indianapolis to force a decisive Game 7 in the NBA Finals, responding with urgency at home behind TJ McConnell’s spark and Pascal Siakam’s 28-point effort.
Siakam shouldered the scoring load, but McConnell keyed Indiana’s third-quarter burst. His impact has gone beyond highlight plays, helping restore belief as the series returns to Oklahoma City for Sunday’s finale.
The Pacers played with edge at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, flipping the series again after back-to-back losses.
READ: 5 Reasons Why the Indiana Pacers Could Win the 2025 NBA Championship
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