Former North Carolina Tar Heels star Rashad McCants has shared his insights on the 2024 NBA Finals, Bill Belichick’s potential coaching role at his alma mater, and his experiences playing alongside NBA legends like Kevin Garnett and Michael Jordan in an exclusive interview with OutKick. McCants, who was a cornerstone of UNC’s 2005 National Championship team, discussed a variety of topics, including his predictions for the NBA Finals, the impact of the NCAA transfer portal on college basketball, and the challenges of transitioning from college to professional sports.
During the interview, McCants expressed confidence in Indiana’s ability to advance in the NBA Finals. He highlighted the coaching expertise of Pacers’ head coach Rick Carlisle and the potential for Indiana’s fanbase to create a compelling narrative in the series. McCants also pointed out the lack of experience among the Oklahoma City Thunder’s roster, which he believes could lead to decision-making errors on the court. This analysis comes as the NBA Finals are currently tied at one game apiece, with the outcome remaining uncertain.
McCants also reflected on his time playing alongside Kevin Garnett in the NBA, describing the veteran center as a competitive and intense player with a fun personality. He drew parallels between Garnett and Kobe Bryant, both of whom he respects for their work ethic and basketball IQ. When asked about the best player he faced during his NBA career, McCants confidently named Kobe Bryant, citing his exceptional skill and ability to dominate games.
Additionally, McCants touched on the topic of the NCAA transfer portal, emphasizing the need for structure and accountability in the process. He stressed the importance of academic and performance-based requirements for athletes seeking to transfer, as well as the financial implications of such moves. McCants also shared some lighthearted anecdotes about his interactions with Michael Jordan during his college years, including a playful moment where he claimed to have beaten the basketball legend in a half-court shot contest.
Looking ahead, McCants expressed support for Bill Belichick’s appointment as the head football coach at UNC, acknowledging the challenges that come with the role. He also discussed his experience in the Big3 league, highlighting the physical and mental demands of playing 3-on-3 basketball. McCants’ insights provide a unique perspective on the current state of college and professional basketball, as well as the broader implications of these developments for athletes and coaches alike.
As the NBA Finals continue to unfold and college athletics navigate the complexities of the transfer portal, McCants’ interview offers a valuable glimpse into the minds of those shaping the future of the game. His thoughts on the current landscape of basketball and the challenges faced by athletes and coaches alike provide a nuanced understanding of the sport’s evolving dynamics.