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Jared McCain shares details of mentorship from Russell Westbrook

2 sources • 2 min read • Latest: Sep 11, 2026, 4:53 AM

Last updated Sep 11, 2026

Jared McCain shares details of mentorship from Russell Westbrook

Summary

Jared McCain recently highlighted the influence of Russell Westbrook on his basketball development. During the July 2022 Nike EYBL tournament, McCain played for Westbrook's Team Why Not? AAU squad, where he recorded a 31-point performance against high school competition. McCain noted that Westbrook provided coaching and off-court support during the event despite his demanding schedule as an NBA superstar. The Oklahoma City Thunder player described the experience as a significant confidence boost that helped shape his professional approach. McCain indicated he maintains a relationship with the future Hall-of-Famer, stating he can reach out to him for guidance at any time. This mentorship now serves as a blueprint for how McCain intends to support younger players in the future.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Jared McCain played for Russell Westbrook's Team Why Not? AAU squad during the 2022 Peach Jam tournament.
•McCain scored 31 points in an exhibition game during the Nike EYBL summer event.
•Westbrook provided active coaching and mentorship to McCain during the tournament.
•McCain continues to maintain contact with Westbrook for professional advice.

Latest Updates

9:21 PMYahoo Sports — Thunder news: How Jared McCain is drawing Russell Westbrook inspiration ahead of 2026-27 season
12:48 PMYahoo Sports — Russell Westbrook Left Jared McCain With A Connection That Still Runs Deep
4:53 AMYahoo Sports — Jared McCain gets honest about how he keeps learning from Russell Westbrook
2:05 AMYahoo Sports — Jared McCain recalls how Russell Westbrook gave him confidence boost

What they're saying

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After watching Russell Westbrook announce his retirement over the summer , Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jared McCain reflected on the future Hall of Fame player’s influence on his career. Before McCain ever set foot in the NBA, Westbrook helped guide him as a teenager and remains a resource today. Ahead of his first full season with the Thunder, […] The post Thunder news: How Jared McCain is drawing Russell Westbrook inspiration ahead of 2026-27 season appeared first on ClutchPoints.
— Yahoo Sports

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Russell Westbrook is no longer preparing for another NBA season, but his influence on younger players has not disappeared. One of those players is Jared McCain, who has known Westbrook since his days playing for the former MVP’s Team Why Not program. McCain is now an NBA player himself, but he still sees Westbrook as [...]
— Yahoo Sports