Jared McCain Thanks Philly as He Heads to OKC for a Fresh Start
Jared McCain’s time in Philadelphia may have been short-lived, but it left a lasting impression - on both the player and the fans. After two seasons with the 76ers, McCain is headed to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a trade that sent draft compensation back to Philly. And while his on-court future now lies in the Western Conference, McCain made it clear: he’s leaving with a full heart.
The 21-year-old guard took to social media to express his gratitude, writing, “Philly, I'm so grateful for everything - the love the city showed, my teammates and staff becoming family. It will always be a home for me and [I’m] incredibly blessed to be drafted here.” It was a heartfelt message from a young player who made the most of his time in one of basketball’s most passionate cities.
McCain’s rookie campaign turned heads. He brought instant energy off the bench, showing a scorer’s mentality and a knack for creating offense in tight spaces. In 60 total appearances with the Sixers, he averaged 10 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2 assists per game - solid production for a young guard still carving out his role in the league.
But just as he was building momentum, McCain’s progress was halted by a season-ending MCL injury. The timing was tough.
He had started to find his rhythm, and the Sixers were leaning on his scoring punch in second units. This season, his return has been steady, though not yet at the level he showed before the injury.
The efficiency hasn’t quite returned, but the flashes are still there - and Oklahoma City is clearly betting on the upside.
For the Thunder, McCain represents another intriguing piece in their ever-evolving young core. They’ve built a reputation for developing talent, and if McCain regains his pre-injury form, he could be a valuable contributor in their backcourt rotation.
Meanwhile, Philadelphia moves forward sitting at 29-21, currently sixth in the Eastern Conference standings. They’re holding off the Magic and Heat, but still chasing the Raptors and Cavaliers. With Joel Embiid anchoring the team and a playoff push on the horizon, the Sixers are clearly focused on the now - and that meant parting ways with a promising young guard to gain future assets.
As for McCain, his Philly chapter ends with appreciation and optimism. And in Oklahoma City, a new opportunity awaits - one that could reignite the spark he showed early in his career.
The Sixers, meanwhile, continue their road trip after a Feb. 5 matchup against the Lakers. Next up: a visit to Phoenix to face the Suns on Feb. 7, with tip-off set for 9 p.m. ET.