T.J. McConnell’s basketball journey has been far from easy. Going undrafted straight out of college in 2015 left many doubting whether he could carve out a place in the NBA. Despite the uncertainty, he eventually caught the attention of the Philadelphia 76ers, where his professional career began.

After spending four seasons with the Sixers, McConnell’s time in Philadelphia came to a close, and he joined the Indiana Pacers for the 2019-20 season. Even with four years of NBA experience under his belt, head coach Rick Carlisle made it clear that McConnell wouldn’t be a regular part of the rotation. True to form, McConnell embraced the challenge, determined to prove the skeptics wrong once again—just as he had done throughout his career.

Through relentless effort, T.J. McConnell earned his place in the Pacers’ rotation, building a reputation as one of the league’s top backup point guards—a sentiment echoed by many of his teammates. While his journey on the court has been challenging, his life off the court is anchored by the support of his wife, Valerie Guiliani. The veteran guard and Valerie share a happy marriage, providing a solid foundation for his life outside of basketball.

Now, let’s dive into the lesser-known side of the Pacers star’s life—his love story with Valerie Guiliani—and get to know the woman who stands by him through it all.

Who is T.J. McConnell’s wife Valerie? How long has the Indiana Pacers’ star been married?

Valerie Guiliani may be best known as T.J. McConnell’s wife, but today, the spotlight shifts to her story.

McConnell and Guiliani share a heartwarming journey that began in their childhood. Growing up as neighbors on Critchfield Drive in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, their bond blossomed over the years. The two eventually began dating while attending Chartiers Valley High School, marking the start of their enduring relationship.

After years of standing by each other through life’s ups and downs, the couple sealed their love by tying the knot on September 9, 2017. Their wedding was held at Hyatt Place Pittsburgh/Meadows Racetrack & Casino, with many of McConnell’s Philadelphia 76ers teammates in attendance, as he was playing for the Sixers at the time. Since then, Valerie has been a constant source of support, often cheering him on from the stands and being a steady presence in his life.

Does T.J. McConnell have any kids with Valerie?

Three years after their wedding, T.J. McConnell shared the exciting news on Instagram that he and his wife, Valerie Guiliani, were expecting their first child together. In January 2021, the couple welcomed their son, McConnell, into the world. Reflecting on the life-changing experience, McConnell expressed his emotions, saying, “The moment he was born made me want to be a better player, a better person, and all of the above.” The arrival of their son had a profound impact on McConnell, inspiring him to elevate every aspect of his life.

Furthermore, their second son arrived in 2023, and some assumed that coaching might be the next step for the 32-year-old veteran when he decides to hang up his shoes. However, now with two young sons, McConnell spoke about spending some time with his loved ones. “You’ll have to ask my wife at my retirement party,” he said humorously.

Why did Tyrese Haliburton give Valerie a shoutout for McConnell’s performance in the 2024 playoffs?

Earlier this year, while the Pacers were battling the Bucks in a playoff series during Game 6, McConnell delivered a clutch performance, scoring 20 points! Not only that, he also grabbed nine rebounds and dished out two assists. His impressive play helped secure the win for Indiana that night and clinched the series victory. Afterward, McConnell’s teammate, Tyrese Haliburton, gave a shoutout to Guiliani for her support throughout the game.

Haliburton, after the game, told reporters, “Yeah I knew he was gonna respond. His wife Val was here and I always tell him that he plays better when Val is at the games. He was a little down after Game 5. He didn’t perform how he wanted to. I just told him, ‘Hey we’re gonna go home. Val is gonna be at the game. You’re gonna be better.’ And it happened, so shoutout Val!”

The Indy Star stated that McConnell’s wife, Valerie, was the lucky charm of her husband because his performances skyrocketed whenever she was in the crowd cheering for McConnell, and it turned out to be true as he played his heart out that night.