Jared McCain excited to play for passionate OKC Thunder fans

Sophomore guard joins defending champions, ready to contribute on offense

Feb. 6, 2026 at 8:47pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Jared McCain, a second-year guard, is thrilled to be joining the Oklahoma City Thunder and playing in front of the team's passionate fan base. After being traded from the Philadelphia 76ers, McCain is eager to contribute to the Thunder's offense and help the defending champions continue their success.

Why it matters

The Thunder are the reigning NBA champions, but have looked vulnerable at times this season. Adding McCain, a talented young scorer, could provide the offensive punch they need to win more games and defend their title.

The details

McCain was overshadowed by the arrival of VJ Edgecombe in Philadelphia, leading to the 76ers trading him. Now he joins a stacked Thunder roster led by a big three, and could play a pivotal role for head coach Mark Daigneault's squad. McCain is familiar with some of his new teammates from his rookie season, and is excited to feed off the energy of the OKC crowd, which he experienced firsthand as a fan.

  • McCain was traded to the Thunder in February 2026.

The players

Jared McCain

A second-year guard who was traded from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Mark Daigneault

The head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

VJ Edgecombe

A player who joined the Philadelphia 76ers, leading to McCain being traded away.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“That was crazy. I was with my friends at the time. We were sitting in the crowd, which was a crazy atmosphere... Any player wants that, the crowd, you dream about it when you work out by yourself.”

— Jared McCain, Guard, Oklahoma City Thunder (Sporting News)

What’s next

McCain will look to quickly integrate himself into the Thunder's rotation and provide a scoring boost off the bench as the team aims to defend its NBA championship.

The takeaway

The addition of Jared McCain gives the Oklahoma City Thunder another talented young player who can contribute on the offensive end, potentially providing the extra firepower they need to repeat as NBA champions.