The NBA is not just a league; it’s a vibrant blend of business and entertainment. For rookie Jared McCain of the Philadelphia 76ers, finding the right balance between hard work and fun is essential. With over 3 million followers on TikTok, McCain has already made a name for himself off the court, showcasing his dance moves and engaging content.
In a recent interview, McCain expressed his desire to collaborate with his All-Star teammates, Paul George and Tyrese Maxey, on TikTok. “If I could one day get Tyrese Maxey or Paul George in a TikTok, that’d be amazing,” he said. “But I’m not gonna force it in their faces by any means. Hopefully, I can get them in one after a big win or something.”
Despite the online criticism he faces for his social media presence, McCain remains undeterred. He understands that being in the spotlight comes with its challenges. “Being on social media, you get a ton of hate, especially now being in the NBA,” he noted. “You know, you have one bad game, they’re gonna blast it everywhere. So I think when I do dances and stuff, obviously, people don’t like it as much, especially because I’m in the NBA, and they want the NBA to be very serious.”
McCain is committed to proving that fun and hard work can coexist. During the Summer League, he averaged 13.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists over five games, demonstrating his dedication to the game. “I’m gonna show up and have fun,” he stated. “You can have fun off the court and still work hard and make it to the NBA. So I’m just trying to change that narrative that you have to be so serious at all times.”
Transitioning from a prominent role at Duke to a team filled with stars like George, Maxey, and MVP Joel Embiid is a significant change for McCain. He feels fortunate to join a winning team and learn from experienced players. “It’s insane. I mean, to think about playing with superstars in the league. Great vets who I can ask questions, and get help from. I’m just grateful for the opportunity I have to be on a winning team,” he shared.
The Sixers had a challenging previous season, finishing with a 47-35 record and facing an early playoff exit. However, with the addition of George and other key players, expectations are high for the upcoming season. McCain recognizes the challenge of making an immediate impact but believes being part of a winning culture will accelerate his development. “I think it’s hard when you’re coming into the NBA sometimes, the higher draft picks go to a worse team,” he explained. “But now I’m going to a winning situation, a passionate fan base. So, I’m just happy to be in this position because I feel like winning is something I always love to do.”
Tyrese Maxey, known for his infectious positivity, may have found a kindred spirit in McCain. Both players share a love for the game and a desire to uplift their teammates. McCain’s vibrant personality, coupled with his competitive nature, makes him a unique addition to the Sixers.
While McCain enjoys his off-court activities, he is a fierce competitor on the court. His shooting ability, particularly from beyond the arc, was a significant factor in the Sixers’ decision to draft him. He shot 41.4% from three-point range during his time at Duke, a skill that is highly valued in today’s NBA. “He’s already putting up a high volume of threes,” said Daryl Morey, the Sixers’ executive. “Being able to shoot threes at a high volume and be in the high 30s, low 40s (percentage-wise) is maybe the most valuable skill in the NBA.”
McCain’s game is multifaceted. He is not just a shooter; he possesses a crafty offensive skill set that includes mid-range jumpers, floaters, and the ability to finish at the rim. His basketball IQ and work ethic set him apart, making him a player who can contribute in various ways. “Frankly, he sort of checked every box,” Morey added. “That’s why we were so high on him.”
As McCain embarks on his NBA journey, he is eager to learn from established players like Maxey. The two share a similar path, with Maxey transitioning from an off-ball role to becoming a primary ball handler. McCain aims to develop his skills in this area, recognizing the importance of basketball IQ in the league. “I think the mind is something a lot of people undervalue in the draft — just being able to figure out stuff, the IQ. I think I’m good at that,” he said.
McCain’s journey to the NBA has been marked by success at every level. He was a standout player in high school, earning accolades such as Gatorade Player of the Year. His time at Duke solidified his status as a top prospect, where he set records and showcased his scoring ability. “Since high school, I’ve felt like I’ve always wanted to be on the biggest platforms, be on the biggest stages, and that’s why I chose Duke,” he reflected.
Now, as he steps onto the court for the Sixers, McCain is ready to embrace the challenge. He is determined to prove himself and contribute to the team’s success. “I’ve always wanted to play in the big games and I feel like when the lights are the brightest, I want to show out and be myself out there on the court,” he said.
With his unique blend of talent, charisma, and determination, Jared McCain is poised to make a significant impact in the NBA. He plans to continue expressing himself through TikTok and his vibrant personality while remaining focused on his ultimate goal: winning. “Obviously, now being a rookie, I’ve got a lot to prove, so I’m just willing to take on that challenge,” he concluded.
As the Sixers gear up for the new season, fans can look forward to watching McCain’s journey unfold, both on and off the court. His infectious energy and competitive spirit are sure to make him a fan favorite in Philadelphia.
Source: ClutchPoints, USA Today
