UPDATE: A seemingly innocuous moment turned into a viral sensation as Philadelphia 76ers rookie Jared McCain showcased his bench press skills—or lack thereof—during the unveiling of the team’s latest classic uniforms on October 25, 2023. The 21-year-old guard was spotted bench pressing a bar loaded with only 2.5-pound plates, igniting a flurry of reactions on social media.
The post quickly gained traction after a user on X (formerly Twitter) asked, “Why is Jared McCain bench pressing 2.5lb plates?” This prompted McCain to respond on his Instagram story, humorously stating, “Working on it,” accompanied by two sad emojis. He later shared a video of himself curling an 8-pound dumbbell, further engaging his 4.4 million followers on TikTok.
This lighthearted moment comes as the 76ers prepare for the upcoming NBA season. McCain, who averaged 15.3 points, 2.6 assists, and 2.4 rebounds in just 23 games last season, earned a spot in the Rising Stars Challenge during All-Star weekend. Unfortunately, his rookie campaign was cut short due to a lateral meniscus tear in his left knee, which required surgery in December 2022.
The viral moment not only highlights McCain’s sense of humor but also underscores the intense scrutiny that NBA players face, especially rookies. With the season approaching, McCain’s playful approach to the situation is a refreshing reminder of the human side of professional athletes.
Fans are eagerly watching McCain’s recovery and performance this season, especially after his promising debut. The viral nature of his bench press has captivated audiences, making it a topic of conversation among basketball enthusiasts. As he prepares to return to the court, all eyes will be on McCain to see if he can translate his social media popularity into on-court success.
Stay tuned for more updates as we follow McCain and the Philadelphia 76ers in the lead-up to the new season.
