Ex-NBA Star Praises Thunder's Fun TikTok Moment

Michael Redd says the team's viral video shows players enjoying themselves, which could give OKC an edge in the playoffs.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:21am

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A dynamic, abstract painting in vibrant neon colors depicting the energetic movements and celebrations of a basketball team, capturing the spirit of the Oklahoma City Thunder players as they enjoy each other's company on the court.The Thunder's infectious team spirit and camaraderie could give them a crucial edge as they seek a second straight NBA Finals appearance.Oklahoma City Today

The Oklahoma City Thunder went viral for filming rookie guard Jared McCain dancing on TikTok, with his teammates including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams cheering him on. While some reacted negatively, former NBA All-Star Michael Redd praised the team's camaraderie and fun, saying 'these guys are having fun' and that it's 'hard to hate on that.' The Thunder hold the league's best record and are poised for another deep playoff run.

Why it matters

The Thunder's ability to have fun and enjoy each other's company could give them a psychological edge as they head into the grueling Western Conference playoffs, where team chemistry and morale can make a big difference.

The details

McCain, the Thunder's 2024 first-round draft pick, has had a promising rookie season despite some injury setbacks. The viral TikTok video shows him dancing with his teammates cheering him on, which generated a mix of reactions online. However, former Bucks star Michael Redd praised the team's ability to have fun together, saying it's 'hard to hate on that' even if it's a different style than what he grew up with.

  • On Saturday, McCain posted the TikTok video that has already been viewed over 3.7 million times.
  • The Thunder posted a photo of the team filming McCain's TikTok, which generated more reaction than the video itself.
  • The Thunder hold the league's best record entering their final regular-season game against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday night.

The players

Jared McCain

A 22-year-old guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder who was the Philadelphia 76ers' 16th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The reigning NBA MVP and star player for the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Jalen Williams

An All-Star forward for the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Michael Redd

A former NBA All-Star who played for the Milwaukee Bucks.

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What they’re saying

“Not worse. Not better. Just different. These are not the personalities I grew up watching, or grew old playing with, but, man, these guys are having fun. Hard to hate on that!”

— Michael Redd, Former NBA All-Star

“The Thunder tradition continues. Our Loud & Loyal welcomed the team home at 1:30 a.m. after the final road trip of the regular season.”

— Oklahoma City Thunder

What’s next

The Thunder will face the Phoenix Suns in their final regular-season game on Sunday night, with Gilgeous-Alexander expected to be named the league's back-to-back MVP.

The takeaway

The Thunder's ability to have fun and enjoy each other's company, as shown in the viral TikTok video, could give them a psychological edge as they head into the playoffs. Their team chemistry and morale could make a big difference in the grueling Western Conference postseason.