McConnell's first major feat of the season came on Dec. 11. He nearly posted a triple-double, which would have been the first of his young career.
McConnell had the points. He had the rebounds. But he was just one assist shy of notching the triple-double — and passing is his speciality.
McConnell finished that game with 12 points on 6-of-9 shooting, a career-high 10 rebounds and nine assists. He also had three steals and played 37 minutes. (See highlights from that game and McConnell's postgame interview below).
The best part about it? McConnell's almost triple-double came against former teammate Stanley Johnson's Pistons. The 76ers won in a landslide, 97-79.
Asked if he saw McConnell's almost triple-double coming, former coach Sean Miller said "not necessarily. That's a heck of a feat." McConnell never even notched double-digit rebounds during his time at Arizona — his career high at UA was nine boards.
"But I did think T.J. would be an NBA guard. I really believed that," Miller said. "Looking back at him, the success he had and the impact he had on the two teams (he) had here, it makes sense.
"He’s someone we’re all really proud of and hopeful he’ll continue to stay healthy because he’s well on his way to playing in the NBA for a long time."
