Jared McCain Flaunts His Bold, Plaid Nail Polish Ahead of Thunder’s First Win of the NBA Season

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jared McCain displayed his colorful, plaid-inspired nail polish before the team's season-opening win over the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday, Oct. 20. McCain, a 22-year-old rookie who joined the Thunder in February, scored 20 points in the 116-104 victory.

The Oklahoma native, who built a large following on TikTok during his high school years, decided to wear his signature multicolored, plaid-inspired manicure during the game. Each nail featured a different color - yellow, green, red, gray, and black - with plaid patterns on each bed. McCain questioned why his manicure reminded him of plaid, jokingly asking if "that’s how you say 'plaid,' right?"

Interestingly, McCain arrived to the game wearing black gloves, but he quickly removed them and showcased his manicure on the NBA's social media platforms. The shooting guard was the 16th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, and is entering his first full season with the Thunder for the 2026-27 NBA season.

McCain's love for his manicure is deeply personal, as he views it as a way to express his individuality and team spirit. In an interview with PEOPLE, McCain stated, "That’s a necessity for me, to feel myself, to be myself. Probably just the team colors, but definitely it’s a necessity for me."

Having grown up with a strong online presence, McCain was prepared for the bright lights of the NBA and potential criticism. He credits his early experience with internet fame for helping him maintain a positive mindset and gratitude for his success. The Thunder will next face the Denver Nuggets at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City on Thursday, Oct. 22.