Jeremiah Fears Becomes Latest Oklahoma Sooners Star to Reach NBA as New Orleans Pelicans Select Dynamic Guard in First Round

The 2025 NBA Draft provided another proud moment for the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program as standout guard Jeremiah Fears heard his name called by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, securing his place among basketball’s elite. The New Orleans Pelicans made Fears their first-round selection, adding a player known for his dynamic scoring ability, fearless mentality, and relentless work ethic. For Fears, it represents the culmination of years of sacrifice, while for the Pelicans, it could be a key piece in their quest to climb the Western Conference hierarchy.

The Pelicans entered this year’s draft with several priorities, but adding backcourt depth and scoring punch stood near the top of the list. In Fears, they’ve secured a player capable of providing both. His journey from Oklahoma to New Orleans wasn’t always predictable, but the signs of his NBA potential have been there for years.

Jeremiah Fears, a 6-foot-3 guard out of Joliet, Illinois, first burst onto the national radar as a five-star recruit with explosive athleticism and an innate ability to create offense. His decision to join the Oklahoma Sooners gave head coach Porter Moser a significant weapon in the backcourt and injected new life into a program eager to return to national relevance. Fears lived up to the hype and then some during his time in Norman.

During his lone season at Oklahoma, Fears established himself as one of college basketball’s most electrifying players. He averaged 17.6 points, 4.8 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game while shooting nearly 38 percent from three-point range. His combination of speed, skill, and confidence made him a constant matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. NBA scouts quickly took notice, intrigued not only by his statistical production but also by his fearless approach and ability to take over games in critical moments.

For the Sooners, Fears represented a throwback to the program’s proud tradition of producing NBA-caliber guards, following in the footsteps of players like Trae Young, Buddy Hield, and Hollis Price. His leadership, though quiet at times, resonated through his on-court actions. Whether it was a deep three-pointer in transition or a hard-nosed defensive stand, Fears became the pulse of an Oklahoma team that surprised many with its competitiveness during the 2024-25 season.

The Pelicans, for their part, have long been searching for consistent backcourt production to complement their frontcourt stars. With Zion Williamson anchoring the paint and Brandon Ingram providing perimeter scoring, New Orleans has the foundation of a playoff-caliber roster, but injuries and inconsistency have hampered their ability to ascend in the fiercely competitive Western Conference.

Enter Jeremiah Fears.

His skill set aligns perfectly with the Pelicans’ needs. Offensively, Fears thrives both on and off the ball. His tight handle, quick first step, and ability to score at all three levels give New Orleans a versatile guard who can alleviate pressure from veteran playmakers. His outside shooting has improved steadily, and his confidence as a catch-and-shoot threat will be invaluable alongside a playmaker like Williamson, who consistently draws defensive attention.

But it’s not just offense where Fears excels. His defensive upside is considerable. At Oklahoma, he displayed quick hands, disruptive instincts, and the lateral quickness to guard both backcourt positions. While he’ll need to add strength to withstand the rigors of NBA physicality, his willingness to compete defensively bodes well for his future role with the Pelicans.

One element that particularly appealed to NBA evaluators was Fears’ performance in high-pressure situations. Whether facing top-ranked opponents in the Big 12 or competing in marquee non-conference matchups, he consistently delivered. His poise, competitive fire, and refusal to back down earned him respect among scouts and executives alike.

For New Orleans General Manager Trajan Langdon, selecting Fears represents more than just adding talent—it’s about reinforcing a winning culture. The Pelicans have assembled a roster with immense potential, but consistency has been elusive. With Fears in the fold, they gain a player who not only boosts their talent level but embodies the competitive edge needed to contend in the Western Conference.

The journey to this point hasn’t been without its challenges for Fears. Growing up in Illinois, he faced the same struggles many young athletes encounter—balancing academics, family expectations, and the relentless demands of elite-level basketball. His work ethic, however, never wavered. From late-night workouts to early morning film sessions, Fears built his game brick by brick, earning the reputation as one of the hardest workers in his recruiting class.

His time with the Oklahoma Sooners only accelerated that growth. Under Coach Moser’s tutelage, Fears evolved not only as a scorer but as a playmaker and leader. He learned the nuances of reading defenses, making advanced passes, and controlling tempo—skills that will translate well to the NBA. Beyond the stats, his maturity and willingness to be coached impressed both his college coaches and professional evaluators.

Draft night itself marked an emotional milestone for the Fears family. Sitting alongside his parents, siblings, and close friends, Jeremiah heard his name called in front of millions—a moment years in the making. His parents, both of whom sacrificed immensely to support his basketball journey, were visibly emotional as the Pelicans made the selection. It was a scene that underscored not just an individual achievement, but the collective triumph of a support system that never lost faith.

For Oklahoma fans, Fears’ selection is another reminder of the program’s ability to produce NBA-ready talent. While his time in Norman was brief, his impact was undeniable. He energized the fan base, showcased his skills on a national stage, and added another chapter to the Sooners’ proud basketball legacy. His name now joins a growing list of Oklahoma alumni making waves at the professional level.

Looking ahead, the Pelicans’ coaching staff, led by Willie Green, will be tasked with integrating Fears into their system. His versatility affords them multiple lineup options, whether as a spark off the bench or potentially sliding into a starting role as he gains experience. With Summer League and training camp on the horizon, Fears will have ample opportunity to showcase his readiness and continue refining his game.

Critics may question his size or speculate about the typical rookie learning curve, but few doubt his talent or competitive fire. In a league driven by guards capable of creating their own shot and defending multiple positions, Fears possesses the blueprint for long-term success.

The Western Conference remains a daunting challenge, with powerhouse teams like the Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, and Los Angeles Lakers continually retooling. Yet the Pelicans believe they’ve added a critical piece to their puzzle. Jeremiah Fears brings youth, energy, and a winning pedigree—qualities that could help New Orleans solidify its place among the conference’s elite.

For Fears himself, the work is only beginning. The NBA stage is unforgiving, and every player faces an adjustment period. But those close to him believe his relentless drive, combined with his natural talent, will help him thrive.

“I’ve dreamed of this moment my whole life,” Fears told reporters after the draft. “Now it’s about proving I belong, helping this team win, and representing my family, my city, and Oklahoma the right way.”

With that mindset, Jeremiah Fears is poised to make his mark—not only in New Orleans but across the entire NBA. His journey from Illinois to Oklahoma to the professional ranks serves as both inspiration and proof that hard work, resilience, and unwavering belief can carry dreams from the neighborhood courts to the sport’s grandest stage.