Duke guard Jared McCain has declared for the NBA Draft after making the ACC All-Rookie Team. McCain, who was Duke’s top recruit from the 2023 class, has developed into a potential first-round pick. He started all 36 games for the Blue Devils and played a key role in their run to the Elite Eight. McCain had standout performances, scoring 30 points against James Madison and 32 points against NC State in his final college game.
In his announcement, McCain expressed his gratitude to the coaching staff, family, and teammates for their support throughout the year. He specifically thanked Coach Scheyer for believing in him and giving him the opportunity to succeed.
Known for his sharpshooting, McCain finished the season with a 41.4% three-point shooting percentage on nearly 6 attempts per game. Despite his size, he excelled in rebounding, grabbing at least five rebounds in 19 games.
Jared McCain’s NBA Draft Outlook
McCain is expected to be a first-round pick and could possibly enter the lottery for teams in need of a shooter. He joins a select group of Duke freshmen who have shot over 40% from beyond the arc on significant attempts per game.
“Shooting has always been a valuable asset for me, especially in college. It’s like a must to be able to shoot. … coach gives me the confidence to shoot,” McCain said in an interview with CBS Sports.
In the latest NBA Draft rankings, McCain is ranked as high as No. 16 in mock drafts, showcasing his impressive performance in the NCAA Tournament and his versatility as a guard.
Impact on Duke
Despite McCain’s departure, Duke is set to welcome the No. 1 recruiting class from the 2024 cycle, headlined by top recruit Cooper Flagg. The future looks bright for Coach Jon Scheyer and the Blue Devils, with several top prospects joining the team.
