Love or hate, Jared McCain is ready for whatever comes his way in Philadelphia with the Sixers

Entering a crucial offseason, Philadelphia remained unchanged in the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft, selecting Duke sharpshooter Jared McCain with the 16th overall pick. The combo guard at Duke became known for his 40% three-point percentage, the TikToks he posts, his painted nails and the journey he took with his brother.

Just minutes after his selection, McCain spoke to Sixers reporters for the first time. Spoiler alert: In his first answer, he mentioned cheesesteaks.

McCain, who has a reputation as a hard worker, believes the transition to Philadelphia should be an easy one for him after playing against a big man his freshman year at Duke.

“Obviously, I learned from (Kyle Filipowski) to create space for him and just let him do his job, find gaps and find ways to get free,” he said. “So I think it’s a great transition for me.”

Not only does he believe the transition on the field will go well, but he also believes his experience as a Duke Blue Devil and the reputation that comes with it will help him in his transition as a Philadelphian.

“Obviously, that brings a lot of hate and a lot of criticism wherever you go,” he said, “but I think that prepares me for the situation I’m in now, especially with Philly, so I think I’m ready for it.”

He’s already been asked about his TikToks and nails and isn’t worried about how people will perceive him in a tough city.

“Yeah, I’m active on social media, I paint my nails, I do all that stuff, but my main focus is basketball, and that’s been my dream since I was 4 or 5 years old,” he said. “So I’m going to do whatever I can to win, bring a positive attitude and just have fun, man. I’m fun-loving and I try to bring that everywhere I go.”

McCain credits his family for his positive personality. He has repeatedly stressed that he will fight any hatred he may face with positivity.

“I’ve come this far, so I’m not going to stop now,” he said. “And even though I get a lot of hate, I try to be as positive as I can and just keep working and trusting in my work.”

He essentially viewed the draft process as a journey he took with his brother. Jayce McCain had to stop playing basketball due to blood clots and went to Duke University to work as an assistant and be at the same school as his brother Jared.

“It was our dream to get drafted and we both made it,” he said.