Jared McCain all smiles over OKC's playoff atmosphere: 'It exceeded my expectations'

Apr 25, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jared McCain (3) shields the ball from Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) in the first half during game three of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

The first time always gets you. The Oklahoma City Thunder have honed one of the best NBA playoff atmospheres over the years. I know every fanbase might feel that way about themselves, but there's a reason why Paycom Center is universally viewed as one of the more daunting crowds to play in front of at this time of the year.

As the only pro sports team, the Thunder are all that OKC folks have. No other alternatives to go to — professionally speaking, at least. That's why when they're on national TV, you see a sea of blue-and-white shirts. Most people — save a few contrarians — instantly put on their playoff shirt as soon as they find their seat.

In their third NBA playoff journey as the first seed, the Thunder should be kinda used to it by now. After all, they've played nearly three dozen worth of postseason games in the Shai Gilgeous-Alexander era. Carrying over a nearly identical roster in all three trips, most players know what to expect.

This year, the one exception is Jared McCain. The Thunder added the 22-year-old in a buy-low move at the NBA trade deadline. So far, the pickup has been stellar. He's had his best stretch since before he tore his meniscus in his rookie year.