PHILADELPHIA — Jared McCain reached a significant milestone in his NBA career on January 3, 2025, as he suited up for his 24th game with the Philadelphia 76ers. After a challenging rookie season that was cut short due to injuries, this game represented a critical step in his professional journey. McCain played just 23 games last season, during which he sustained a concussion and a torn meniscus in his left knee, leading to surgery that ended his season prematurely.
Reflecting on the achievement, McCain stated, “I think that was one of the top ones, just being able to go past what I did last year. It’s a mini-accomplishment that I can have as a win for myself.” Although he did not hold a grand celebration for the occasion, he recognized the importance of surpassing a number that had weighed heavily on him since last summer.
Challenges and Adjustments
McCain’s sophomore season has not been without its difficulties. Currently serving as the second-unit point guard for a 20-15 76ers team, he faces a different set of challenges compared to last year, when the team struggled with a dismal 24-58 record. He acknowledged that while his personal statistics have declined—averaging only 6.7 points and 1.8 assists this season compared to 15.3 points and 2.6 assists last year—he values team success over individual performance.
“Last year, we weren’t that good at all, and I was able to have a bigger opportunity in different ways,” McCain explained. “So I’m just looking at this year, you’ve got to look at it differently. Because we’re winning way more, and it’s a part of this process of as a young player, going through it.”
Despite the drop in scoring, some of McCain’s metrics show promise. His rebounding per 100 possessions has increased from 4.7 last year to 6.3 this season. Furthermore, his defensive contributions are evident with a rise in steals, averaging 2.2 per 100 possessions, up from 1.2 last year.
Overcoming Physical Limitations
Injuries have played a significant role in McCain’s performance this season. He has been hampered by a knee brace and a thumb injury, limiting his explosiveness and effectiveness on the court. As he begins to regain his full athleticism, he is focused on improving his shooting percentage, which has dropped to 34.4%, compared to 46.4% last season.
Despite the setbacks, McCain remains optimistic. He has a supportive coach in Nick Nurse, who has emphasized the importance of patience as McCain navigates this challenging period. “He just needs time,” Nurse remarked, acknowledging the toll that a lengthy absence from competitive play can take on a young athlete.
McCain is also employing mental strategies to cope with the pressures of the game. He is keenly aware of the need to focus on the process rather than just the numbers. “You’ve got to take the small wins as you can,” he said. “It’s tough when you obviously want to put up the same numbers or more and do what I did last year. But it’s different. It’s a different team, and you’ve just got to try to help this team win.”
As he continues to adapt to his role within a winning team, McCain is determined to improve. His focus on contributing positively, even when his personal statistics may not reflect it, demonstrates a maturity that could bode well for his future in the league.
“Just being healthy is kind of the main thing,” he concluded, emphasizing his commitment to completing the season strong. With Game No. 24 behind him, McCain looks forward to what lies ahead, reminding himself that every step forward is a victory in its own right.
