In an NBA world increasingly dominated by social media highlights, business decisions, and brand-building, it’s easy to forget the magic that makes the league so beloved in the first place—the connection between players and fans. During the 2024–25 season, few players embodied that connection better than Indiana Pacers teammates T.J. McConnell and Pascal Siakam. Whether it was after a big win, a tough loss, or a quiet Tuesday afternoon in Indianapolis, one thing was always true: McConnell and Siakam put the fans first. ❤️
From the moment Pascal Siakam arrived in Indiana via trade, there were questions about fit, chemistry, and long-term commitment. But those questions faded quickly—not because of what he did on the stat sheet (though he delivered plenty), but because of how he embraced the Pacers community. Pascal wasn’t just showing up on the court; he was showing up in the community. School visits, youth clinics, hospital stops—Siakam made it a priority to be present. And that presence meant everything to fans in a city that thrives on loyalty and authenticity.
“He didn’t have to do all that,” one fan said after a team event where Siakam stayed for nearly two hours signing autographs and taking selfies. “He could’ve left after 10 minutes. But he made every kid feel like they mattered. That’s bigger than basketball.”
And then there’s T.J. McConnell—already a cult favorite before this season, but now an undisputed icon in Indiana. The veteran guard has always been known for his hustle and heart on the court, but his efforts off the court have made him a hero to fans of all ages. Win or lose, you could count on McConnell to acknowledge every fan near the tunnel, to toss a wristband to a young supporter, or to stop mid-warmup to sign a shirt or take a quick photo. These weren’t staged moments for the cameras. This was just who T.J. is.
“I remember when I was a kid and I’d go to games hoping for just a wave or a high-five,” McConnell said during a postgame interview. “Now that I’m on the other side, I just want to give fans those memories. They’re the reason we get to do this.”
It wasn’t just their individual actions—it was the way McConnell and Siakam brought the team and city together. When the Pacers made their deep postseason run, fans rallied behind them not just because of their talent, but because of their character. These weren’t players hiding behind bodyguards or skipping out of side exits. They were walking through the crowd, high-fiving fans, signing every item handed their way, and giving interviews with kids holding microphones in the front row.
Pascal, in particular, made a point of connecting with the younger generation. He organized free youth camps throughout the season and even donated sneakers to local high schools. “If I can give a kid just a little more belief in themselves, I’ve done my job,” Siakam said. “Because I’ve been that kid. I know what it means.”
McConnell’s fan-first mentality extended even further. He built relationships with season-ticket holders, remembered families by name, and often stayed after practices just to greet fans waiting outside the facility. In an era where the distance between players and fans can feel larger than ever, T.J. helped bridge that gap every single day.
What made it all more powerful was how genuine it was. This wasn’t a PR campaign or a league initiative—it was real, consistent, and heartfelt. And Pacers fans noticed.
The result? One of the most electric home-court environments in the league. Gainbridge Fieldhouse became a fortress, not just because of the team’s performance, but because of the bond between the players and the fans. The chants were louder. The jerseys in the crowd were more diverse. And the energy was undeniable.
Throughout the playoffs, Siakam and McConnell were often seen leading postgame walk-arounds, personally thanking fans in the lower sections after every home game. Whether it was waving to kids in the crowd or tossing their game-worn gear into the stands, they made sure fans knew they were part of the journey.
And after the Pacers’ emotional Game 7 loss in the NBA Finals, it was McConnell and Siakam who stayed the longest—walking the court, hugging fans, and thanking them for the support. In defeat, they showed even more heart.
“You guys deserve everything,” McConnell said during an emotional moment after Game 7. “We didn’t get it done, but we felt your love every step of the way.”
That’s the thing about T.J. McConnell and Pascal Siakam. It’s not just about basketball. It’s about community, humility, and connection. They didn’t have to put the fans first—they wanted to.
In a league filled with superstars and headlines, sometimes it’s the smallest gestures that leave the biggest impact. And in Indiana, two players reminded us all what being a pro truly means.
T.J. McConnell and Pascal Siakam put the fans first. Always. ❤️
