Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jared McCain expressed surprise about being traded from the Philadelphia 76ers just before the trade deadline on Wednesday, but said he is eager to begin his journey with the defending NBA champions. The Thunder’s head coach, Mark Daigneault, revealed that their interest in McCain started as early as 2024 during McCain’s draft process when he trained with Oklahoma City. On Friday, McCain returned to the Thunder’s practice facility for the first time since that workout.
During his initial media interview after the trade, McCain was asked if the 76ers informed him about the deal before it was publicly announced.
No, not at all, McCain replied.
We were all on the bus to the airport, and I just got a call. I had no feeling. I didn’t think it was going to happen, to be honest. There was nothing, and I got the call, and just went and told everybody. I went to Tyrese [Maxey] first, and it was pretty emotional.
This sudden change has been emotionally challenging for McCain, yet he believes he will adapt quickly and is ready to take the court for the Thunder soon.
I allow myself to feel all the emotions. It’s natural. Give myself grace through this process,
McCain said.
But you move quick. I touched down in LA and then had to come straight here. It’s a little bit of both. It’s a balance you’ve got to work through. I’m definitely still going through it, and still trying to cope with it.
Coach Daigneault on McCain’s Potential Debut and Team Plans
Head coach Mark Daigneault remained uncertain about whether McCain will play in the upcoming Saturday matinee game against the Houston Rockets. The coaching staff is carefully managing McCain’s transition following the trade while preparing for their next matchup. Daigneault’s early interest in McCain reflects the team’s long-term plan to develop young talent in Oklahoma City.
McCain Reflects on His Journey and Future Outlook with the Thunder
The Thunder acquired McCain in exchange for four draft picks, including a coveted 2026 first-round selection and three future second-round picks set through 2028. Despite a sophomore season marred by injuries, McCain remains optimistic about what lies ahead and emphasizes the lessons learned throughout his brief NBA career so far.
I’ve had a lot of experience in a small amount of time,
McCain said.
I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. I’ve gone through the highs and lows. And there’s going to be more to come. Just trying to stay even and trying to stick with it. Stick with it. Just continue to work hard, and just know that it’s all going to come together. I would summarize, I think it’s been amazing. My life is amazing. I get to play basketball and get paid to do it.
He highlighted the importance of staying grounded amid challenges by leaning on his support network.
So, I try to keep that in perspective at all times when there’s obviously little things that are going to happen that definitely could mess up that. You just gotta stay even and try to talk with your family, talk with the people around you that you care most about,
McCain added.
Minimal Communication with Former Team Amid Trade News
McCain revealed that he did not have significant interaction with the Philadelphia 76ers’ general manager, Daryl Morey, after learning about the trade. The transition has been swift as he relocated, touched down in Los Angeles, and immediately made his way to Oklahoma City to join his new team.
Looking Ahead to McCain’s Thunder Debut
As McCain prepares to make his debut for the Thunder, attention turns to the upcoming match against the Rockets on Saturday. His arrival marks a pivotal moment for Oklahoma City as they integrate a promising young talent into their roster. With his resilience and experience, McCain’s role could grow as the Thunder aim to solidify their position within the NBA.
Here’s Jared McCain speaking to the media for the first time as a Thunder player pic.twitter.com/NC1yu5xJoC
— Justin Martinez (@Justintohoops) February 6, 2026
