Jared McCain’s return to Philadelphia came with mixed emotions, a warm welcome, and another Oklahoma City Thunder win.

McCain scored 13 points in his first game back in Philadelphia since being traded last month, helping the Thunder defeat the short-handed 76ers 123-103 Monday night. Oklahoma City improved to 57-15 and extended its winning streak to 12 games, the longest active streak in the NBA.

The moment was emotional for McCain, who admitted it felt strange returning to a city he had only recently left.

“It was really weird,” McCain said. “When I first got on the court, it felt like I was on the Sixers again. Saying hi to the coaches, talking to people, even landing at the hotel. Everything was just so weird.”

Despite the emotions, McCain focused on staying within the team’s system.

“There’s that subtle feeling you want to prove the team wrong that traded you,” McCain said. “But at the end of the day, I just wanted to win and play the right way. There’s always a chip on my shoulder, and I was definitely excited to play against the Sixers.”

Philadelphia fans responded warmly, cheering McCain when he entered the game and again as he exited the floor.

“I’m always just blessed with that amount of love,” McCain said. “I really believe if you put good energy out, it comes right back. I’m super grateful for how they welcomed me.”

McCain also credited Oklahoma City’s culture for helping ease his transition after the trade.

“Just being here, you can tell the culture,” McCain said. “Having Shai playing at the level he is and feeding off his energy. The organization is amazing. You can feel that winning culture.”

Williams returns, Thunder set tone early

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 22 points, while Jalen Williams added 18 points in his return after missing 16 games with a right hamstring strain. Jaylin Williams scored 18 points off the bench and Chet Holmgren added 17.

Oklahoma City jumped out early, taking a 35-25 lead after the first quarter and building a 65-43 halftime advantage. The Thunder led by as many as 24 points and were never seriously threatened.

Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault praised Jalen Williams’ return and preparation.

“He didn’t miss a beat,” Daigneault said. “It’s a credit to him and the work he’s done while he was out, and also the medical, performance and coaching staff. Great job by everybody to get him ready.”

Defense sparks strong start

Daigneault pointed to defense as the key to Oklahoma City’s fast start.

“I thought we did a nice job defensively to start the game and make them earn everything,” Daigneault said. “Lou did a really good job early, and offensively we developed a flow early in the game that we were able to maintain.”

Philadelphia was led by VJ Edgecombe’s 35 points, but played without Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Paul George.

Thunder staying focused during winning streak

Despite the 12-game winning streak, Daigneault emphasized the Thunder’s focus remains on possessions, not results.

“We don’t really focus on the winning streak,” Daigneault said. “We focus on possessions and building the right habits. Sometimes you look up, and you win the game. Sometimes you look up, and you’re up 20. Sometimes you look up, and you have a winning streak.”

Balanced approach continues

Daigneault also praised McCain and the team’s unselfish play.

“They stay in character,” Daigneault said. “They play for the Thunder now and did a great job staying inside the team. I thought we had a very balanced approach tonight.”

Oklahoma City has now won 12 straight games and continues to hold the best record in the NBA as the defending champions push toward the postseason.