By Angel Rivera 
The 2024 NBA Draft class, to many, seemed underwhelming. There wasn’t a clear standout
destined to become a major star. However, a month into the season, flashes of talent have
emerged from some of these rookies. But one player, in particular, has stood out. If you don’t
live under a rock, you might already know this name—whether it’s from his dancing or his
glowing personality. He wasn’t even a lottery pick. Enter: Jared McCain.
Let’s be honest—by now, everyone should know about Jared McCain. He’s on an absolute tear
right now. If you don’t, allow me to reintroduce him. McCain is a 6’2″ guard out of Duke who
went one-and-done after a stellar March Madness performance. During the tournament, he
dropped two massive 30-point games and finished as the 8th highest scorer overall. His ability
to shoot, attack the rim fearlessly, and create for his teammates brought him to this point. At
every level of basketball, McCain has improved—from high school to now. So, to see him fall
out of the top 10 in the draft was a shock to me.
The Philadelphia 76ers took a chance on him despite having an ascending star in Tyrese Maxey
already running the show. Coming into the season, most expected McCain to spend his rookie
year clapping from the bench, passing towels, and doing stretches during warmups, with Maxey
and Kyle Lowry dominating the rotation. Fast forward to now—Jared McCain is in the starting
lineup.
The 76ers, however, are off to a brutal 2-11 start this season. Injuries to their Big 3—Joel
Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey—have derailed their early momentum. All three have
missed significant time, and things couldn’t be further from what the team envisioned. Yet, with
this opportunity, McCain has thrived. Over the last six games, as a key part of the rotation, he’s
averaged 25 points, 4 assists, and four three-pointers per game. Just incredible. When Maxey
returns, the 76ers need to find a way to integrate both players into the lineup consistently.
McCain has already positioned himself as a favorite for Rookie of the Year, even with the
season still young. However, that accolade is likely the least of his concerns right now,
considering Philly’s dismal start. From being a top-three Eastern Conference favorite entering
the season to now holding the league’s worst record, the Sixers have been nothing short of
disappointing. A prime example? Their 106-89 loss to the Miami Heat last night, despite Embiid
and George both suiting up, leaving McCain as their leading scorer (kind of sad, honestly).
No more excuses for Philly—they’re not a proven team until they can deliver in the playoffs. At
this rate, they might even have a shot at Cooper Flagg in next year’s draft. (Paul George was
impressed with Flagg’s USA scrimmage performance, so maybe it’s all part of the plan.) Jokes
aside, if McCain can continue to grow alongside the Sixers’ stars and help build chemistry,
there’s still hope for a strong turnaround this season. Basketball, after all, is a game of runs.
On the bright side, the Sixers’ future looks promising with McCain leading the way. Drawing
early comparisons to a young Steph Curry is no small feat. Many doubted McCain due to his
flamboyant personality and even his painted nails. But he’s silencing critics with his play, letting
his talent do the talking. Side note: Yes, he’s my pick for Rookie of the Year.
In a recent interview, McCain boldly stated: “You’d be lying if you think I believe there’s 15 guys
better than me.” That chip on his shoulder, fueled by being passed up by 15 teams, is evident in
his play. While the season is still young, the question remains: which rookie from this class will
ultimately have the best career? Only time will tell.
Joel Perez