"I saw Jordan Clarkson do it": NBA draft prospect Jared McClain claims to draw inspiration from Utah star for painting his nails

Jared McClain, a potential first-round pick in the 2024 NBA draft, is known for his ball-handling skills, fluid movements and pinpoint passes on the court. Besides, he is also recognized for wearing nail polish.

The NBA reached out to McClain on Tuesday for the pre-draft interview to discuss preparations for the draft and to ask whether his nails were ready for the event. McClain said he finds inspiration for painting his nails from Utah Jazz star Jordan Clarkson.

"Simple black. Goes with my shoes. It was the beginning of COVID. I saw Jordan Clarkson do it and I decided to give it a try," McClain on painting his nails for the first time. "The first color was lavender. It was the one I found in my mom's favorite kit."

McClain also shared his favorite color to paint the nails.

"I feel like when I was at Duke, it was blue. I go for black usually, black & white. Just the simple colors. Go with every outfit," he said.

According to Jared McClain, wearing nail polish is a way to express his true self. He mentioned that he is not bothered by what others think of his interests as well.

"At an early age I've always been told to just be myself, like I'm always just gonna be myself and as for the painted nails, I just kind of do it whether I get to hate or not," McCain said.

"The hate is funny because it's usually grown men most of the time and it's like you're a grown man just hating on a kid. It doesn't affect me at all. I kind of just laugh at it."

Will Jared McClain go top 10 in the draft?

Former Duke star Jared McClain has gained significant attention as an NBA draft prospect. He played only one season of college basketball at Duke before entering his name for the draft.

While his stats and ability seem promising, it is highly unlikely that the 6-foot-3 guard will be selected within the top 10 picks in the draft. According to the latest mock draft from multiple media sources, his highest draft position comes from Kevin O'Connor of The Ringer, who ranks him 11th.

Meanwhile, the Sporting News, ESPN and Sports Illustrated rank McClain at No. 16, projecting him to join the Philadelphia 76ers. On the other hand, CBS Sports projects he will be selected 17th overall, while Bleacher Report's mock draft places him at the 18th pick.