Thunder fans will love Jared McCain’s ‘forever’ declaration

The Oklahoma City Thunder swept past the Phoenix Suns in the first round, and while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander gets a big part of the headlines, multiple players contributed to the 4-0 series victory. One guy that hasn’t had his chance just yet is Jared McCain.

McCain is still getting acclimated to both the city and his new team after being shockingly traded from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Thunder at the NBA trade deadline. Despite that, McCain says he may be ready to make Oklahoma City home forever.

After sweeping the Phoenix Suns, the Oklahoma City Thunder decided to stay in Phoenix overnight and fly back in the morning. With only a bunch of rest days and no series imminently awaiting them, the team could take their time and enjoy their first round series win.

Upon landing at the airport in Oklahoma City, a number of fans were seen waiting for the team to arrive to congratulate and celebrate with them. For Jared McCain, it was the first time seeing that kind of love from a fanbase.

“The city really showed out man,” McCain said. “Shoutout OKC, man. I love this city. I want to be here forever.”

Jared McCain: “Shoutout OKC, man. I love this city. I want to be here forever.” pic.twitter.com/gJPQBo4YfR

— Thunder Film Room (@ThunderFilmRoom) May 1, 2026

Jared McCain only made 30 appearances with the Thunder after being traded to Oklahoma City at the trade deadline, averaging 10.4 points, 1.0 rebounds, and 0.9 assists in 18 minutes per game. Thus far in the postseason, McCain has played a total of 22 minutes, putting together 12 points, four rebounds, and one assist in that time.

McCain made headlines during his rookie season when he averaged 15.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists in 23 appearances before suffering a season-ending torn meniscus injury.

Oklahoma City clearly likes Jared McCain and will take their time developing the guard and syncing him up with the championship roster. While McCain has opportunities now, an offseason with a training camp would do wonders for the 22-year old out of Duke.

After Friday night’s results, the Thunder will be hosting the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round of the NBA playoffs. That series is scheduled to start on May 5th in Oklahoma City with the two teams playing every other day outside of a two-day gap between Games 5 and 6 of the series.

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