Philadelphia 76ers rookie guard Jared McCain is eager to make a splash in the NBA right from the start.
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 203 pounds, the former Duke player may not be the tallest, but his sharpshooting abilities from beyond the arc set him apart. McCain boasts an impressive 41.4% three-point shooting percentage during his time with the Blue Devils.
Looking up to New York Knicks’ superstar Jalen Brunson as his role model, McCain aspires to emulate Brunson’s style of play on the court.
“I believe that my shooting prowess is my most valuable asset that I can bring to the NBA. I admire Jalen Brunson’s game a lot, although I’m not quite at his level yet,” McCain revealed during an interview on his teammate Paul George’s podcast. “I admire shorter, stockier guards who can impact the game in various ways.”
McCain also draws inspiration from the likes of Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors and CJ McCollum of the New Orleans Pelicans, hoping to model his game after theirs.
“I’ve been studying Brunson’s college highlights extensively with my trainer. We watch a lot of film, especially from his college days,” McCain mentioned. “I’ve been following Brunson’s career for a while now.”
Brunson made a name for himself during the playoffs with the Dallas Mavericks before taking his game to the next level in New York. Recently, he secured a lucrative four-year, $156 million contract extension after averaging 28.7 points and 6.7 assists on 47.9% shooting. Brunson’s decision to leave significant money on the table next summer exemplifies his commitment to the team’s success.
Philadelphia’s management envisions McCain following a similar path if he can fulfill his potential and reach the heights he aspires to achieve.
MORE 76ERS NEWS
76ers draft pick traded to Lakers in a potential blockbuster deal
NBA analysts commend 76ers’ $35 million steal