DEAL FINALIZED: T.J. McConnell has agreed to a contract extension with the Indiana pacers covering the 2025–2027 seasons. The deal is for 4 years and is worth $53 million in total. It includes a massive $49.65 million signing bonus, with the entire amount fully guaranteed. T.J. McConnell will earn an average of $13.25 million per year under the new contract..
The Indiana Pacers and veteran point guard T.J. McConnell have finalized a new contract extension that will keep the steady floor general in Indiana through the 2027 NBA season. The deal, confirmed today, is valued at $53 million over four years and includes a significant $49.65 million signing bonus. Notably, the entire contract is fully guaranteed, reflecting the Pacers’ strong commitment to McConnell’s leadership and consistent play.
McConnell, who has been with the Pacers since 2019, has earned a reputation as one of the NBA’s most reliable backup point guards. Known for his tenacity on defense, high basketball IQ, and ability to run the offense efficiently, McConnell has been a key contributor off the bench and a veteran presence in the locker room. Despite often flying under the radar, his impact on the game is felt in areas that don’t always show up on the stat sheet—such as hustle plays, ball movement, and defensive pressure.
The $13.25 million average annual salary marks a significant investment by the Pacers, especially given that McConnell will be entering his age-33 season when the extension begins in 2025. However, Indiana’s front office clearly values McConnell’s stability and leadership, especially as the team continues to build around rising star Tyrese Haliburton and a young, athletic core.
What stands out most in this deal is the unprecedented signing bonus. At $49.65 million, it accounts for over 93% of the total contract value and is fully guaranteed—an unusual structure in NBA contracts. While signing bonuses are not typical in standard player contracts due to salary cap rules, such a structure may have been negotiated to offer financial security and reward McConnell’s years of dedication to the team.
This extension effectively removes McConnell from the 2025 free-agent market and ensures the Pacers will retain one of their most dependable veterans as they continue to push toward Eastern Conference contention. With this move, Indiana signals its belief in continuity and the value of veteran experience as it balances youth and ambition in its ongoing development.
McConnell’s return also provides important stability for head coach Rick Carlisle, who has consistently trusted him in crucial late-game moments. For Pacers fans, it’s a reassuring sign that the franchise is doubling down on a culture built around effort, unselfish play, and experienced leadership.
