Five-star junior Jared McCain chooses Duke, talks his decision
This past summer, Jared McCain put the basketball world on notice.
Once a fringe Top-100 prospect, McCain dominated at the always popular Peach Jam tournament. He came away with the championship and was the tournament’s standout.
Now, McCain is a five-star prospect and a social media star, living out all his dreams possible and now he’s ready to begin a new chapter in 2023 and has found his home.
“It’s Duke,” McCain told Stockrisers.com.
So yes, Jon Scheyer has landed Jared McCain to join Caleb Foster and Sean Smith in Duke’s talented 2023 class. McCain is seen as a Top-30 prospect and is continuing to rise, as he has just been outstanding all year long. He just led his team to a district title and recently just accomplished another season goal:
Win a state title.
But, the matter at hand: McCain is a Blue Devil.
We broke down his decision to join The Brotherhood, in his discussion with Stockrisers.com
Which school and why?
“Duke. So many questions and concerns came into this decision but ultimately it came down to play style and knowing I’ll be taken care of out there. I want that trust between a coach and player that it’s basically like family and that what I felt instantly at Duke.”
How close was this decision between other finalists?
“Yes, Gonzaga and Houston we’re incredibly close. I had such a great bond with the Houston coach and I loved them over there. That was the hardest call to make just because of the relationship I have with that coaching staff.”
Now, talking about your new school, what sealed the deal?
“Asking the hard questions and [Coach] Scheyer answering perfectly. Whether it was about play style or something else. Everything was a great fit. Another huge sealer was the NIL side of things. With Duke having the most followers in college sports, it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass upon.”
How will they help you benefit NIL-wise?
“Just with the platform Duke has and fan base will help build my brand.”
How will your game benefit and mesh in Duke’s system?
“I feel my game will mesh because of my shooting ability off of pin downs and curls. As well as the pick and roll that coach is implementing are perfect for my game.”
Caleb Foster, did he recruit you hard and how is the relationship with him?
“Ha, yes, he’s been the main recruiter. He hit me a while ago before I got the Duke offer and he was saying he wants to play with me. I'm really excited to play with him and Sean [Stewart]. Both my guys and been talking to them for a bit now.”
Is there a group chat, remember Zion, Cam, RJ, and Tre, is this similar?
“Very similar [laughs].”
Who will you recruit to Duke?
“Now we’re trying to get GG [Jackson] and Mackenzie [Mgbako].”
Lastly, what is your message to Duke nation?
“My message is just that I’m ready to work and even though I do TikToks and social media stuff, I promise I will work, work and work to win the national championship.”