Pelicans Select Jeremiah Fears at No.7: A Long-Term Investment in Point Guard Potential
The New Orleans Pelicans have made a significant move in the 2025 NBA Draft, selecting OklahomaS Jeremiah Fears with the seventh overall pick. This selection signals a clear intent to bolster their backcourt, particularly in light of recent roster adjustments and a key injury.
A promising Freshman Campaign
Fears entered the University of Oklahoma as a highly-touted prospect, ranked among the nation’s top 25 recruits. he quickly validated that hype, earning a spot on the SEC All-Freshman team after a standout 2024 season. Averaging 17.1 points, 4.1 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game, Fears demonstrated a well-rounded skillset. Notably, he transitioned from a reserve role to become a consistent starter, logging 31 consecutive starts for the Sooners.
His efficiency was evident in his shooting percentages: 43% from the field and an extraordinary 85% from the free-throw line. Fears also excelled at drawing contact, ranking second in the SEC with 183 made free throws on 251 attempts – a testament to his aggressive attacking style. While his three-point shooting (28%) requires growth, his overall scoring prowess was undeniable, culminating in an average of 22.3 points over his final nine games. Currently, players with similar freshman profiles include Bronny James (USC) who averaged 5.5 PPG, 2.5 RPG, and 2.5 APG.
Addressing the Point Guard Position
The Pelicans’ acquisition of Fears comes at a crucial time. With Dejounte Murray expected to miss the beginning of the season recovering from an Achilles tendon tear, the team’s leadership has prioritized strengthening the point guard position. Recent moves reflect this strategy: a trade sending CJ mccollum and Kelly Olynyk to Washington in exchange for Jordan Poole, followed by the draft selection of Fears.
This approach allows for a measured development path for Fears. With Poole and Jose alvarado already on the roster, the Pelicans can afford to integrate Fears gradually, avoiding the immediate pressure of entrusting him with primary ball-handling duties. The team believes that with focused development, particularly on his perimeter shooting, Fears possesses the potential to become a truly impactful player.
The Risk and Reward of a Dynamic Guard
Evaluating players like Fears presents a unique challenge. his skillset is primarily focused on on-ball creation and driving to the basket. the key to his success hinges on whether he can evolve into a legitimate All-Star caliber lead guard. If he doesn’t, his role may be limited to that of a scoring specialist off the bench, diminishing his overall value.
Consider the trajectory of Collin Sexton, who enjoyed a highly productive freshman season at alabama. Sexton has become a capable scorer, but his limited passing ability and defensive struggles, coupled with his size, have prevented him from becoming a cornerstone player on a winning team.Fears faces a similar crossroads. He needs to demonstrate significant growth in areas beyond scoring to maximize his potential.The difference between a valuable contributor and a star often lies in the ability to elevate teammates and consistently impact the game on both ends of the court.
Ultimately, the Pelicans are betting on Fears’ potential. They are providing him with a supportive environment and the time he needs to refine his game and realize his considerable upside.