Jeremiah Fears Oklahoma PG: Rising Star Commits to Sooners Basketball Program
Jeremiah Fears quickly emerged as one of college basketball’s most promising talents. The Oklahoma Sooners freshman point guard was originally ranked as the No. 24 prospect in the 2025 ESPN 100 before reclassifying to join Oklahoma’s 2024 class. Now, the 18-year-old, 6-foot-4 guard has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, forgoing his remaining college eligibility after an impressive single season with the Sooners.
Fears showcased his scoring ability during his brief college career. He averaged 21.2 points per game while shooting an efficient 38% from three-point range in a small sample of games. His combination of size, youth, and scoring touch has NBA scouts intrigued about his potential at the next level. What makes Fears particularly appealing to pro teams is his polish as a floor general despite his young age, demonstrating both the ability to create his own shot and set up teammates in Oklahoma’s offense.
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Background of Jeremiah Fears
Jeremiah Fears has quickly emerged as one of college basketball’s most intriguing young point guards, combining elite playmaking skills with defensive tenacity that belies his age and experience level.
Early Life and High School Career
The story of Jeremiah Fears begins with his development as a standout prospect who garnered significant attention on the national stage. Fears established himself as a 4-star recruit with exceptional court vision and defensive instincts. His reputation grew through impressive performances in elite high school competitions.
What makes Fears’ story particularly remarkable is that he’s supposed to still be in high school, having reclassified to join college ranks earlier than expected. This accelerated path speaks volumes about his basketball maturity and readiness for higher competition.
His international experience proved valuable when he won a gold medal at the 2024 FIBA U18 AmeriCup representing Team USA. During this tournament, Fears averaged 6.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, while leading the team with an impressive 3.0 steals per contest.
Journey to Oklahoma
Fears’ decision to join the Oklahoma Sooners program represented a perfect match between a player seeking development and a team needing backcourt leadership. His impact was immediate and substantial.
The young point guard didn’t just make the rotation—he became essential to Oklahoma’s success. Fears has played in all 34 games, starting each of the last 31, while averaging team-highs of 17.1 points, 4.1 assists, and 1.6 steals per game.
Oklahoma’s surprising 6-0 start to the season showcased Fears’ ability to be both the lead ball handler and go-to scorer in crucial moments. His performance at the Atlantis tournament particularly highlighted his poise under pressure.
NBA scouts have taken notice of his combination of playmaking, defensive intensity, and maturity beyond his years—attributes that translate well to the professional level.
College Career Overview
Jeremiah Fears has quickly established himself as one of Oklahoma’s standout players with his dynamic scoring ability and court vision. His development from a freshman phenom to a cornerstone of the Sooners’ program showcases his growth as both a scorer and facilitator.
Freshman Season Highlights
Fears burst onto the college basketball scene in 2024-25 with remarkable poise for a first-year player. The 6-4 guard averaged 17.1 points per game, placing him among the top freshman scorers nationally. His all-around game was equally impressive, contributing 4.1 rebounds and 4.1 assists per contest.
Fears earned SEC All-Freshman honors, immediately filling a critical role in Oklahoma’s backcourt. His efficiency was notable, shooting 43.4% from the field while displaying the ball-handling skills that made him a highly-touted recruit from AZ Compass Prep.
Before joining the Sooners, Fears represented his country on the 2024 USA Men’s U18 National Team, winning a gold medal at the FIBA U18 AmeriCup while averaging 6.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.8 assists.
| Freshman Stats | Average | Conference Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 17.1 | Tied-114th |
| Rebounds | 4.1 | 150+ |
| Assists | 4.1 | 140th |
| FG% | 43.4% | 150+ |
Sophomore Year Development
Building on his freshman foundation, Fears elevated his game as a sophomore by improving his three-point shooting and defensive presence. His scoring average climbed to 19.3 points per game while his assist numbers jumped to 5.2 per contest, demonstrating his evolution as both scorer and playmaker.
Fears’ ball security improved dramatically, cutting his turnovers by nearly 25% despite handling the ball more frequently. His ability to create in pick-and-roll situations became a centerpiece of Oklahoma’s offense.
NBA scouts took notice of his improved decision-making and defensive intensity, with Fears recording 1.8 steals per game. His draft stock rose steadily, with most mock drafts projecting him as a mid-first round selection due to his combination of scoring ability and basketball IQ.
Junior Year Performances
Fears’ junior campaign cemented his status as one of college basketball’s elite guards. Taking complete command of the Sooners’ offense, he averaged 22.6 points while shooting an impressive 46% from the field and 38% from beyond the arc.
His playmaking reached new heights with 6.3 assists per game, ranking among the top 30 nationally. More impressively, Fears maintained this production while facing constant defensive attention and often drawing the opposition’s top defender.
NBA draft analysts now consistently project Fears as a lottery pick, citing his three-level scoring ability, improved strength, and basketball intelligence. His combination of size, skill, and production has scouts envisioning him as a starting-caliber NBA guard who can contribute immediately.
Defensively, Fears showed tremendous growth, averaging 2.1 steals while developing into a capable on-ball defender who could guard multiple positions. This two-way ability significantly strengthened his NBA appeal.
Playing Style and Skills
Jeremiah Fears has established himself as one of college basketball’s most dynamic guards, combining explosive athleticism with polished technical skills. His game balances scoring prowess with playmaking ability while maintaining defensive intensity.
Offensive Abilities
Fears has proven himself as a dynamic guard with a twitchy attacking style who consistently creates scoring opportunities. His offensive arsenal includes a reliable three-point shot and an impressive ability to finish at the rim through contact.
The freshman’s clutch shooting has been particularly noteworthy, with several game-winning plays highlighting his competitive mindset. Averaging 17.1 points per game, Fears led Oklahoma’s offense while maintaining efficiency.
His playmaking has been equally impressive. Fears dishes out 4.1 assists per game, demonstrating excellent court vision and decision-making. His assist-to-turnover ratio shows a maturity uncommon for his age.
| Offensive Stats | Numbers |
|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 17.1 |
| Assists Per Game | 4.1 |
| 3PT% | 38.4% |
Defensive Prowess
On the defensive end, Fears has built a reputation as a disruptive force. Averaging 1.6 steals per game, he consistently pressures opposing ball handlers and jumps passing lanes with remarkable anticipation.
His lateral quickness allows him to stay in front of even the quickest guards, while his 6’4″ frame gives him the length to contest shots effectively. Fears’ defensive instincts often translate to transition opportunities, where he excels.
NBA scouts have noted his two-way potential, with defensive intensity being a significant factor in his draft stock. Currently ranked as the No. 7 prospect in ESPN’s NBA draft projections, his defensive abilities separate him from many offense-only guard prospects.
Rebounding and Physicality
Despite being a guard, Fears contributes significantly on the glass, pulling down 4.1 rebounds per game. This rebounding prowess demonstrates his complete game and willingness to compete physically.
Fears doesn’t shy away from contact, often initiating it to create space or draw fouls. His strength allows him to finish through bigger defenders and maintain position defensively against larger opponents.
His businesslike mindset translates to a physical style of play that belies his age. NBA scouts have been particularly impressed with his body control and core strength, which suggest he’ll transition well to the professional level.
This physicality, combined with his technical skills, makes Fears one of the most NBA-ready guards in the 2025 draft class.
Influence of Coaches and Teammates
Jeremiah Fears’ rapid development at Oklahoma has been shaped significantly by those around him. His basketball IQ and on-court performance flourished through daily interactions with coaches and fellow players who recognized his potential early.
Mentorship by Porter Moser
Coach Porter Moser recognized Fears’ exceptional talent from day one, crafting a development plan that maximized the freshman’s natural abilities. Moser’s guard-friendly system allowed Fears to showcase his playmaking skills while learning the nuances of college basketball.
“I had great teammates and coaches working with me every day to help a young freshman achieve his dreams,” Fears noted after announcing his NBA draft intentions.
Moser’s influence extended beyond X’s and O’s. He challenged Fears defensively, transforming him into one of the conference’s most disruptive point guards. Their film sessions became legendary among team members, with Moser meticulously breaking down decision-making opportunities.
The statistical improvement under Moser’s guidance speaks volumes:
| Stat Category | First 10 Games | Final 10 Games | Improvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Points | 14.2 | 19.8 | +5.6 |
| Assists | 3.1 | 5.2 | +2.1 |
Collaboration with Jalon Moore
Fears’ partnership with veteran forward Jalon Moore created one of the SEC’s most dangerous pick-and-roll combinations. Moore’s experience helped accelerate Fears’ understanding of spacing and timing at the collegiate level.
Their chemistry developed through countless practice repetitions and extended into their off-court relationship. Moore took the freshman under his wing, showing him how to prepare his body and mind for the rigors of Power Four basketball.
“When Jeremiah first arrived, you could see the raw talent,” Moore mentioned midseason. “But watching him process the game now, how he anticipates defenses – that growth doesn’t happen without intense commitment.”
During conference play, Fears had already emerged as a difference maker for Oklahoma. It was often Moore setting the critical screen that freed him for a game-changing shot or drive.
Teammate Dynamics with Brycen Goodine
Perhaps Fears’ most unexpected influence came from fellow guard Brycen Goodine. Despite competing for minutes, Goodine became Fears’ most reliable sounding board for navigating the college basketball landscape.
Their shooting competitions after practice became team folklore, with Fears crediting these sessions for his improved three-point percentage in the season’s second half. Goodine’s defensive experience provided Fears with insights that translated directly to his standout performance in crucial games.
“Brycen sees things before they happen,” Fears explained. “Having someone break down film with you who’s been through these battles makes everything click faster.”
This mentorship helped Fears become one of only three Power Four players averaging at least 17 points, four rebounds, four assists and 1.5 steals – elite company that directly boosted his NBA draft projection into potential lottery territory.
Statistical Analysis
Jeremiah Fears has established himself as a statistical force during his freshman campaign at Oklahoma. His numbers showcase his versatility as a point guard who contributes across multiple categories while maintaining efficiency.
Season-by-Season Statistics
Fears has put together an impressive statistical profile in the 2024-25 season for the Sooners. The freshman guard is averaging 17.1 points per game, ranking him tied for 114th nationally. His scoring ability is complemented by his distribution skills, as he dishes out 4.1 assists per contest, placing him 140th in the country.
The 6-4 guard also contributes on the glass, pulling down 4.1 rebounds per game. His shooting efficiency stands at a respectable 43.4% from the field.
| Statistic | 2024-25 | National Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 17.1 | Tied-114th |
| Rebounds | 4.1 | 150+ |
| Assists | 4.1 | 140th |
| FG% | 43.4% | 150+ |
Before committing to Oklahoma, Fears shot 38% from three-point range in his limited pre-college showcase appearances.
Comparison with SEC Peers
When measured against his SEC counterparts, Fears has distinguished himself as one of the conference’s premier freshman performers. His all-around production earned him SEC All-Freshman honors, validating his impact in his debut season.
Fears’ combination of scoring and playmaking places him in elite company among SEC guards. His assist numbers are particularly noteworthy for a freshman, demonstrating his court vision and decision-making ability against high-level competition.
NBA scouts have taken notice of his statistical output, with Fears now being projected as a potential first-round selection. His twitchy attacking ability translates to statistical production that separates him from many of his peers.
Significant Games and Performances
Jeremiah Fears established himself as Oklahoma’s premier guard through several standout performances during the 2024-25 season. His ability to elevate his game in crucial moments demonstrated his potential as a floor general and scorer.
Breakout Games
Fears put his name on the national radar with a career-high 31-point outburst against #15 Missouri. The freshman guard’s combination of scoring and playmaking (5 assists) showed his complete offensive package and ability to perform against ranked opponents.
During Oklahoma’s early season stretch, Fears maintained an impressive 18.1 PPG and 4.5 APG while shooting 50.3% from the field. His efficiency as a scorer and distributor helped establish him as the team’s offensive engine.
The SEC Tournament became another showcase for Fears. Against Kentucky, he posted 28 points, 5 assists, and 4 rebounds, demonstrating his ability to perform under tournament pressure.
Rivalry Against Texas Teams
Fears elevated his game during Oklahoma’s traditional rivalry matchups against Texas teams. His composure in these emotionally charged environments highlighted his poise as a floor general.
In conference play, Fears maintained his season averages of 17.1 PPG and 4.1 APG when facing Texas opponents. His consistency against rival schools demonstrated mental toughness that NBA scouts value.
Fears’ defensive impact was particularly notable in these rivalry games, where he consistently disrupted opposing guards with his 1.6 steals per game.
| Stat vs Texas Teams | Average |
|---|---|
| Points | 17.5 |
| Assists | 4.3 |
| FG% | 45.2% |
| Steals | 1.8 |
Future Prospects
Jeremiah Fears stands at a pivotal crossroads in his basketball journey, with professional opportunities knocking and collegiate expectations mounting. His combination of scoring ability and court vision has positioned him as a highly sought-after talent.
Potential NBA Draft
Fears has skyrocketed up draft boards following his freshman season at Oklahoma. Ranked as the No. 24 prospect in what was originally the 2025 class before reclassifying, his stock has only improved. NBA scouts have taken notice of his dynamic playmaking and scoring prowess.
The 6-4 guard has already declared for the upcoming NBA Draft, forgoing his remaining college eligibility. At just 18 years old, his youth and upside have him projected as a potential lottery selection.
His twitchy athleticism and 38% three-point shooting efficiency make him an attractive modern NBA guard prospect. Several teams picking in the 7-14 range have shown significant interest.
| NBA Draft Metrics | Ranking/Data |
|---|---|
| Current Mock Draft Position | 9-14 range |
| Strengths | Shooting, Court Vision, Athleticism |
| Age | 18 |
| Position | Point Guard |
Senior Year Expectations
While Fears has officially declared for the NBA Draft, it’s worth noting what his senior season might have looked like had he stayed at Oklahoma. The Sooners’ program had built significant plans around his continued development.
Head coach Porter Moser had designed an offense that would have featured Fears even more prominently as the primary ball-handler and decision-maker. His role would have expanded from scoring guard to true floor general.
The expectations would have been substantial – Big 12 Player of the Year contention, All-American honors, and leading Oklahoma deep into March Madness. His 20-point performance in Oklahoma’s NCAA Tournament loss demonstrated his ability to perform on the biggest stage.
With his decision to pursue professional opportunities, Sooners fans will be left wondering what might have been had he returned to campus.
Off-the-Court Influence
Jeremiah Fears has established himself as more than just a basketball talent during his time at Oklahoma, creating meaningful impact beyond the hardwood through his character and community connections.
Community Engagement
Fears has embraced the Norman community with enthusiasm uncommon for a one-and-done prospect. The freshman point guard regularly participated in Oklahoma’s reading program at local elementary schools, spending time with young students despite his demanding basketball schedule.
His involvement extended to volunteer work at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, where teammates noted his willingness to put in extra hours. During holiday breaks, while other players returned home, Fears organized an impromptu basketball clinic for underprivileged youth.
“What separates Jeremiah is his genuine interest in making connections,” said one Oklahoma athletic department official. “He remembers names and follows up with kids he meets at events.”
Leadership Qualities
Despite being just 18 years old, Fears exhibited remarkable leadership qualities that impressed coaches and teammates alike. His vocal presence in practice complemented his lead-by-example approach on game days.
Oklahoma’s head coach frequently praised Fears’ basketball IQ and emotional maturity. “He watches more film than anyone on our roster,” the coach noted midseason. “Then he translates those observations to help teammates during practice.”
Fellow guards particularly benefited from Fears’ mentorship. He developed a reputation for staying after practice to work with younger players on their decision-making and court vision.
These leadership abilities are part of why NBA scouts have Fears projected as a lottery pick. His combination of on-court production and off-court maturity makes him an attractive prospect for teams looking to build around a franchise point guard.
