[The following scouting report is part of a series on potential 2024 draft prospects from Sports Business Classroom alumni.]

Jared McCain
Frame: 6’2″, 203 lbs
Position: Guard
Team: Duke Blue Devils
2024 Draft Age: 20
Stats via www.sports-reference.com

Offense

McCain’s calling card is his perimeter shooting. He shot 41.5 percent from three on 210 attempts (82.8 percent assisted). He also shot well from the line at 88.5 percent on 87 total attempts, according to www.barttorvik.com. When watching McCain shoot, there is no question why he is as good as he is. He possesses picture-perfect mechanics, an even and consistent base, and a high release that he follows through on. These mechanics remain the same whether he is shooting on or off the ball. His quick release allows him to get up shots quickly, either when coming off an off-ball screen or getting up a spot shot on the wing.

McCain’s pace is also exceptional, as he’s rarely rattled or rushed by opposing defenses, typically taking what they give him and determining his course of action. As the ball-handler against drop coverages, McCain rises from behind the arc or takes a couple of dribbles for a two-point pull-up jumper, where he shot 43.8 percent on 80 attempts (28.6 percent assisted). If the defense hedges or traps on the ball screen, McCain can hit his big man rolling to the rim or probe until a teammate gets open with a capable handle. Despite not having an array of moves, McCain utilizes a change of directions and pace to get to his spots. He also thrives at attacking closeouts, pulling up for a jumper, or finding an open teammate on the perimeter.

McCain’s biggest concern offensively is his finishing around the rim. He shot 59.6 percent on 89 attempts (22.6 percent assisted). Given McCain’s lack of height, he can struggle to finish over big men. His lack of vertical pop doesn’t help.

Despite being a quality facilitator, it is worth noting McCain isn’t quite a gamebreaker in that regard. He only averaged 1.8 assists to 1.3 turnovers, with a 10.7 assist percentage and a 12.2 turnover percentage. He was fourth amongst Duke’s starters in usage rate at 19.7 percent. But his game mainly consists of making the open read and deliver rather than making next-level reads.

Defense

Despite his size, McCain was a decent defender at the collegiate level. He showcased a great motor, diving for loose balls. Against similar-sized guards, McCain could use his stout frame to keep them in front of him. However, this will likely not translate to the NBA, where McCain’s lack of vertical or lateral athleticism will hinder him, as he won’t have the physical traits to keep quality NBA scorers in front of him.

McCain projects as an off-ball defender, playing into his strength of creating turnovers by jumping passing lanes. He does a good job moving and being alert off-ball, baiting ball handlers into making lackadaisical passes when on the strong side. McCain averaged 1.8 steals per game with a steal percentage of 2.0 percent. 

Looking Ahead

McCain’s shooting and connective playmaking make him a quality prospect. He could score on or off the ball while seemingly making the right play every time. His defensive role and finishing around the rim are concerns, but shouldn’t keep him from having a 10-year career in the league. McCain projects as a top-20 pick in the upcoming draft and a quality guard off the bench, with upside as a starter as he develops.