Jared McCain just can't stop dancing on or off the court.
March Madness has been kind to Duke's star freshman, who has made headlines for his painted nails, singing, dancing, TikTok account and even his ability on the hardwood. A man of many talents, could McCain's next dance be a waltz into the NBA Draft?
It's been all quiet on that front, leaving plenty of room for speculation.
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The Sporting News looks at whether McCain is bound for the association when his freshman year at Duke comes to a close.
MORE: Jared McCain NBA Mock Draft scouting report
Will Jared McCain declare for the NBA Draft?
McCain hasn't indicated whether he plans to declare for the NBA Draft after Duke's season concludes or if cutting down the nets would sway him one way or another.
His performance this season has catapulted the guard into fringe lottery territory in mock drafts, meaning the Blue Devils' freshman could opt to cash in rather than risk injury in a return to the college ranks next season.
The new world in college sports, however, might change things for McCain, who could take advantage of name, image and likeness (NIL) opportunities while further improving his draft stock.
With the No. 1 ranked incoming class in the country and top recruit Cooper Flagg wearing Duke blue, there's a good chance for the Blue Devils to reach the mountaintop next season as well. McCain could enter the draft as a more pro-ready prospect if he takes another season to grow and improve.
Whether he's willing to bypass a seemingly guaranteed spot in the NBA's first round is something Duke fans will be left to wonder.
MORE: How Duke's Jared McCain built massive TikTok following before stepping on campus
Jared McCain NBA mock draft
If McCain decides to turn pro, mock drafts indicate that he probably won't have to wait too long to hear his name called. He's projected to be a first round pick and could challenge for a top 10 spot if the right team comes calling.
In Sporting News' Kyle Irving pre-NCAA Tournament mock draft, he has McCain being taken with the No. 16 pick by the Philadelphia 76ers.
Here's a look at where various outlets have McCain slated to be taken:
| Pick | Team | |
| Sporting News | 16 | 76ers |
| Bleacher Report | 11 | Bulls |
| The Ringer | 14 | Pelicans |
| USA Today | 12 | Thunder |
MORE: How Jayce McCain helped brother Jared become freshman star at Duke
Jared McCain stats
As for how McCain played in his freshman year, here's a look at his stats for the 2023-24 season:
| Stat | Average |
| Points | 13.8 |
| Rebounds | 5.0 |
| Assists | 1.9 |
| Steals | 1.1 |
| Field goal % | 46.5 |
| 3-point % | 41.2 |
| Free throw % | 86.8 |
