Pacers' McConnell Shows Pittsburgh Pride with Crosby Penguins Jersey

Reserve guard arrives for game against Miami Heat wearing iconic black and gold jersey.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 11:25pm

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Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell, a native of Pittsburgh, arrived for Sunday's game against the Miami Heat wearing a gold No. 87 Sidney Crosby jersey from the Pittsburgh Penguins, complete with the captain's 'C'. McConnell, one of the best reserve point guards in the NBA, has been a lifelong Penguins fan and wanted to show off his Pittsburgh roots before the game.

Why it matters

McConnell's gesture is a heartwarming display of hometown pride, as the Pacers guard remains connected to his Pittsburgh roots despite playing in Indianapolis. The Penguins' official Twitter account even acknowledged McConnell's show of support, further strengthening the bond between the NBA player and his beloved NHL team.

The details

T.J. McConnell, a 11-year NBA veteran and 7-year member of the Indiana Pacers, is known as one of the best reserve point guards in the league. Last season, his strong play off the bench helped the Pacers reach the NBA Finals, where they ultimately fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder in seven games. McConnell is second in NBA history in career assists by a bench player, trailing only Lou Williams.

  • McConnell wore the Crosby jersey on his way to the Pacers' game against the Miami Heat on Sunday, March 29, 2026.

The players

T.J. McConnell

A 11-year NBA veteran and 7-year member of the Indiana Pacers, known as one of the best reserve point guards in the league.

Sidney Crosby

The captain and star player of the Pittsburgh Penguins, one of the NHL's most iconic franchises.

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What they’re saying

“Go Pens 🐧”

— Indiana Pacers, NBA Team

The takeaway

T.J. McConnell's gesture of wearing a Sidney Crosby Penguins jersey to an NBA game demonstrates the enduring connection between professional athletes and their hometown teams and fan bases, even when playing in different cities. McConnell's pride in his Pittsburgh roots is a heartwarming reminder of the power of sports to unite communities.