As the Indiana Pacers prepare for their first NBA Finals appearance since 2000, veteran point guard TJ McConnell emphasized composure, unity, and focus ahead of their matchup with the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.
“We’re just trying to stay in the moment,” McConnell said during media availability, acknowledging the team’s collective eagerness. “Most of us are anxious, ready to get out there.”
The Pacers advanced after a 125-108 Game 6 victory over the Knicks, and now face an Oklahoma City team coming off a dominant closeout performance in the Western Conference Finals.
“They’re a complete team,” McConnell said about the Thunder. “They’re incredibly well coached. We have to be ready for a full 48 minutes of battle and just be locked in.”
Despite being underdogs, Indiana’s postseason run has been marked by resilience, and McConnell downplayed any concerns about outside skepticism.
“That’s been the norm for us throughout the playoffs,” he said. “We’re not really worried about the external noise. We know what we have to do to win.”
Asked whether he plans to dictate pace against the Thunder’s aggressive defense, McConnell responded clearly: “Of course.”
He highlighted the need for discipline, particularly in protecting the ball. “They force a ton of turnovers, so we’ve got to take care of it and play together.”
With the Finals stage now set, McConnell admitted there hasn’t been much time to reflect. “We’re trying to live in the moment and stay locked in.”
Though he grew up without a hometown NBA team, McConnell said just playing in the Finals will be his most memorable moment.
When asked about what shoes he plans to wear if Indiana wins it all, McConnell kept it simple: “Probably the ones I’ve been playing in all year. The Ja Morants.”
McConnell credited the Pacers’ front office, led by Kevin Pritchard and Chad Buchanan, for constructing a team that fits their style. “They’ve just done a great job and deserve so much credit.”
On head coach Rick Carlisle, McConnell pushed back on old narratives. “If the narrative was he’s controlling, it couldn’t be more untrue… The empowerment that he shows us as players has been incredible.”
McConnell understands the rarity of this opportunity. “People have to realize how hard this is to do,” he said. “But the job’s not done. We’ve got four more wins, and we’ve got to focus on that.”
