The buzz around Oklahoma freshman guard Jeremiah Fears is palpable, especially as we gear up for the 2025 NBA Draft. Despite his promising skills and projection as a lottery pick, there are some clouds of uncertainty surrounding his maturity on the court.
An Eastern Conference scout recently offered a candid assessment, indicating that Fears can sometimes let his emotions get the best of him. “He gets frustrated easily,” the scout explained, even suggesting that there are moments when his behavior might come off as immature. It’s a reminder that talent alone doesn’t always guarantee a smooth transition to the next level; mental fortitude often plays just as crucial a role.
“As a player, I think there’s times I think he’s a baby,” the scout said. “He gets frustrated easily.”
This past season, Fears showcased his scoring ability by averaging 17.1 points, along with 4.1 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.6 steals. Those numbers are certainly impressive, but there’s a notable wrinkle: he averaged 3.4 turnovers per game, placing him among the leaders in an unwanted category—the worst turnover rates in the nation. This inconsistency raises red flags for scouts and teams considering him in the lottery.
In the latest mock draft from B/R’s Jonathan Wasserman, Fears is projected to be selected by the Utah Jazz with the No. 5 pick. However, it’s important to note that some teams might hesitate to pull the trigger on him due to concerns regarding his shooting range, turnover issues, and performance when not with the ball.
Evaluating a player like Fears isn’t straightforward. The scout reflected on his time watching him, noting that while Fears has flashes of brilliance, honing in on those skills requires time and patience. “He can go get a bucket. He can pass,” the scout acknowledged, highlighting the dual threat he poses on the court. But it’s imperative for Fears to channel that talent effectively if he hopes to become a consistent contributor at the NBA level.
As we look ahead, teams will want to weigh both Fears’ standout abilities and the areas needing improvement. It’s a balancing act, one that could ultimately dictate not just his draft position but his future success in the league. The road from college standout to NBA mainstay can often be a rocky one, and for Fears, the next steps will be crucial in defining his career.
