From time to time, fans will discover certain quirks NBA players have outside the court. For Philadelphia 76ers rookie Jared McCain, it’s painting his nails and he has revealed the story behind it.
McCain is a 20-year-old guard recently selected by the Sixers in the 2024 NBA Draft. He attended Centennial High School in California, where he was a standout player, earning California Gatorade Player of the Year honors as a junior and senior. He was a consensus five-star recruit and one of the top players in the 2023 high school class.
In 2023, McCain enrolled at Duke University, where he had a successful freshman season. He was named to the ACC All-Rookie Team and received ACC Rookie of the Week honors twice. He set a Duke freshman record by scoring 35 points in a game against Florida State. After the season, the guard declared for the 2024 Draft, forgoing his remaining college eligibility.
The Sixers selected McCain with the 16th overall pick in the 2024 draft, and he signed with the team on July 4, 2024. Prior to his college and professional career, he represented the United States under-18 basketball team at the 2022 FIBA Under-18 Americas Championship. With his combination of scoring ability, playmaking, and defensive skills, the guard is poised to be an impactful player in the NBA for Philadelphia.
Philadelphia 76ers Rookie Jared McCain Reveals Reason Why He’s Painting His Nails
Just recently, McCain made heads turn when he admitted to painting his nails. In a video shared by ClutchPoints on X, the Sixers rookie revealed the story behind it.
“I started in Covid… I think Jordan Clarkson was the first one I saw doing it. [It’s] just something I do for fun… A lot of men probably need to be getting more manicures and pedicures.”
Jared McCain on why he started painting his nails 🗣️pic.twitter.com/cWPfkdONo4
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) August 13, 2024
McCain revealed he found inspiration in Jordan Clarkson’s stylish nail art during the pandemic, leading him to explore his own creativity through colorful nail designs. His favorites, an all-black style and a Duke-themed blue and white combo, have become a form of self-expression and self-care, reflecting a growing trend of personal individuality among NBA players.
With the NBA set to come back soon, Sixers fans will have a chance to see more of McCain on the court. Hopefully, the rookie finds his spot next to the All-Star trio of guard Tyrese Maxey, former MVP Joel Embiid, and veteran wing Paul George.
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