T. J. McConnell Wife
Meet T. J. McConnell wife Valerie Guiliani, aka Valerie McConnell! This drop-dead gorgeous lady is quite an impressive gal, not only is she an example of resilience and kindness, she is an amazing wife and a caring mother.
On the other hand, her husband can send his team to the top of the scoreboard. T. J. McConnell, a star college athlete out of the University of Arizona, joined the Philadelphia 76ers after going undrafted in 2015 and is now one of the starting players with the Indiana Pacers.
Valerie Guiliani
T. J. McConnell’s wife, Valerie Guiliani, now Valerie McConnell, is the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, native’s childhood sweetheart.
These two met in kindergarten, became close friends, and started dating while they were in high school and eventually getting married and becoming parents.
Valerie Guiliani McConnell was born on Valerie Maria Guiliani on July 8, 1992; one of three children born to Richard Guiliani and Valerie Benton, who are also the proud parents to Valerie’s twin sister Victoria and brother Vince, who is the senior director at the Danaher Corporation.
Valerie’s momma married Michael Benton, from Kansas and a longtime resident of Bridgeville/South Fayette, who passed away on January 21, 2018, after a courageous fight with a rare liver and bile duct cancer. Surrounded by his loving wife and family, he was deeply cherished. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps beginning in 1973, later earning a bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering from Kansas State University. He returned to the Marines as an officer and served until 1993, with assignments across the U.S. and abroad. In civilian life, he worked as a Project Manager for the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh, then as a Senior Engineer at L.R. Kimball; and served South Fayette Township as Township Engineer, Director of Engineering and Planning, and Zoning Officer.
Valerie Guiliani graduated in 2020 from Chartiers Valley High School and in 2014 got her Bachelor’s of Nursing from Kent State University. Her working experience includes a registered nurse with experience at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, where she had the opportunity to work alongside many dedicated professionals — Her journey into nursing reflects both compassion and commitment. Before officially stepping into the clinical field, Valerie gained hands-on experience as a childcare provider with Melissa Gnoth, where she nurtured children with patience and care — qualities that have continued to define her nursing approach.
T.J. asked Valerie to marry him on August 25, 2016; according to reports, TJ absolutely nailed the proposal! He planned an unforgettable scavenger hunt that took Valerie on a sentimental journey through their shared history — starting at the place they first met, then revisiting where they lived, and finally leading her back to their old high school. When she arrived at the gym in Chartiers Valley High School, she found the floor covered in rose petals and their favorite song playing in the background. It was such a sweet, thoughtful moment — straight out of a romance movie!
They got married at Holy Child Parish on September 9, 2017; follow by a reception at the Hyatt Place Pittsburgh South surrounded by their closest friends and family.
They welcomed their first son, Trace Benjamin, on Friday, January 8, 2021 and their second child born on
T.J. McConnell Biography
Early Life and Family
T.J. McConnell was born on March 25, 1992, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Raised in a basketball-obsessed household, he was coached from an early age by his father, Tim McConnell, a highly respected high school coach at Chartiers Valley High School. T.J. developed a strong work ethic, leadership skills, and basketball IQ under his father’s guidance.
The McConnell family is filled with athletes and coaches. His sister, Megan McConnell, made a name for herself as a standout point guard at Duquesne University. Known for her hustle, sharp passing, and leadership, Megan became one of the Atlantic 10’s top players. In 2025, she signed with the Phoenix Mercury, officially launching her professional career in the WNBA.
T.J.’s brother, Matty McConnell, also played college basketball at Robert Morris University. T.J. is the nephew of Olympic gold medalist and WNBA legend Suzie McConnell-Serio, as well as longtime coaches Kathy McConnell-Miller and Tom McConnell. Basketball excellence runs deep in the McConnell bloodline.
High School Career
T.J. starred at Chartiers Valley High School, where he played under his father. As a senior, he averaged over 34 points per game and led his team to a remarkable 29-2 record. He was known for his scoring ability, leadership, and relentless drive. His dominant performances earned him the 2010 Pennsylvania Class AAA Player of the Year and solidified his status as one of the best high school point guards in the state.
College Career
McConnell began his college basketball career at Duquesne University, where he quickly made an impact. As a freshman, he averaged 10.8 points, 4.4 assists, and 2.8 steals per game, earning Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year honors. After two seasons, he transferred to the University of Arizona.
Following a redshirt year due to NCAA transfer rules, T.J. became the Wildcats’ starting point guard and emotional leader. During his time at Arizona, he helped lead the team to back-to-back Elite Eight appearances. He was named First Team All-Pac-12 and Pac-12 All-Defensive Team, and was widely respected for his leadership, floor vision, and defensive intensity.
NBA Career
Despite going undrafted in 2015, T.J. earned a spot with the Philadelphia 76ers after a strong performance in the Summer League. He quickly became a reliable and gritty point guard, known for his playmaking and defensive hustle. He spent four seasons with the Sixers, earning praise from teammates and coaches for his effort and consistency.
In 2019, McConnell signed with the Indiana Pacers, where he took on a larger role. He became one of the league’s most dependable backup point guards and a crucial spark off the bench. On March 3, 2021, he made NBA history by recording a triple-double that included 10 steals — becoming one of only a few players to accomplish that feat.
T.J. McConnell Contract and Salary
T.J. continued to impress with his ability to run the offense, defend with intensity, and lead with heart. In August 2024, he signed a four-year contract extension with the Pacers worth $44.8 million, including $26.2 million guaranteed. The deal averages $11.2 million per season and reflects his value as both a player and a veteran leader.
