Jared McCain Philadelphia 76ers
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Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain is turning another setback into fuel. After tearing the UCL in his thumb during training camp, the 21-year-old spoke openly about the emotional toll and his determination to return stronger.
Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain has already faced more adversity in two years than most players do in a decade. The 21-year-old sharpshooter tore the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right thumb on the first day of training camp—his second major injury in less than a year. But despite the setback, McCain’s message on Wednesday was clear: he’s not losing faith.
“The universe is throwing haymakers at me,” McCain said. “It’s all a part of the process. I got to just continue to trust. It happens for a reason.”
Emotional Toll and Determined Mindset
McCain recalled the moment vividly. A routine defensive tag on a roller turned into a freak accident when his thumb got caught. He knew right away that something wasn’t right. On his drive home from the practice facility, the MRI results confirmed his fears. He pulled over, called his mom, and broke down in tears.
For a young player already recovering from a torn meniscus that ended his rookie season, the timing couldn’t have been worse. But McCain refuses to let frustration define him or his career.
“Being able to play off other guards is something I’ve done my whole life,” he said. “So I’m excited to just finally get back out there and play with them.”
That mindset has earned praise from head coach Nick Nurse, who has watched McCain attack his recovery process with energy and focus.
“I get here pretty early in the morning, and he’s usually already out on the floor doing something,” Nurse said. “He’s keeping that ‘I’m not going to be denied’ attitude.”
Staying Ready Through Adversity
McCain remains about two weeks away from his next evaluation, but he hasn’t slowed down. He’s kept his conditioning sharp, working on-court with only his left hand while staying close to the team during practices. Even from the sidelines, his presence continues to uplift the locker room—a trait that stood out throughout his rookie season.
In his debut campaign, McCain averaged 15.3 points, 2.6 assists, and 2.4 rebounds per game while shooting 46% from the field, 38.3% from three, and 87.5% from the free-throw line. Before his meniscus injury in December, he was an early Rookie of the Year candidate and one of Philadelphia’s few bright spots during a difficult year.
Now his focus shifts to turning this latest setback into growth. His thumb surgery on September 30 went smoothly, and he’s expected to be reevaluated around October 29. If cleared, he could resume full basketball activities by early November.
The Bigger Picture
Injuries have tested McCain’s start, but his response continues to reveal his maturity. He’s leaned on family, faith, and his psychologist to stay grounded and focused on the long term.
That combination of vulnerability and grit makes McCain one of the most respected voices in the Sixers’ young core. As Philadelphia enters a pivotal season, his leadership—even while sidelined—remains invaluable.
When he returns, the Sixers won’t just regain a shooter. They’ll regain their spark that fits seamlessly next to the trio of Joel Embiid, Paul George and Tyrese Maxey.