OU freshman Jeremiah Fears bringing ‘businesslike mindset’ to SEC play as NBA Draft stock soars

OU Freshman Jeremiah Fears Bringing ‘Businesslike Mindset’ to SEC Play as NBA Draft Stock Soars

The University of Oklahoma (OU) basketball program has witnessed its share of rising stars, but few have entered the scene with as much anticipation as freshman guard Jeremiah Fears. With his polished skill set, unwavering focus, and a “businesslike mindset,” Fears is poised to make an immediate impact in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) while simultaneously skyrocketing up NBA Draft boards. As the 2023-24 season unfolds, his story represents a compelling intersection of talent, preparation, and ambition.

A Prodigious Talent with a Strong Foundation

Hailing from Joliet, Illinois, Fears has been on the radar of college recruiters and NBA scouts for years. A five-star recruit out of high school, he was widely regarded as one of the top point guards in the 2023 class. His game is characterized by exceptional court vision, a silky shooting touch, and a knack for making high-IQ plays under pressure.

Fears’ rise can be attributed to more than just raw talent. His older brother, Jeremy Fears Jr., a standout guard at Michigan State, has served as both a mentor and a motivator. Growing up in a basketball-centric family, Jeremiah developed a deep understanding of the game’s nuances from an early age. This background laid the foundation for his success and shaped his relentless work ethic.

“Watching my brother and learning from him has been huge for me,” Fears said in a preseason interview. “He’s taught me to stay focused, block out the noise, and treat every day like a step toward my ultimate goal.”

Transition to the SEC: A Test of Maturity

The SEC is renowned for its physicality, speed, and depth of talent. Transitioning from high school to this level of competition is no small feat, but Fears appears ready for the challenge. He’s described his approach to the collegiate game as “all business,” a mindset that sets him apart from many of his peers.

OU head coach Porter Moser has already praised Fears for his maturity and preparedness.

“Jeremiah came in with the mindset of a pro,” Moser said. “He studies film, he asks questions, and he’s always looking for ways to improve. That’s rare for a freshman, especially one with so much hype around him.”

Fears’ businesslike approach is evident both on and off the court. In practices, he’s often the first to arrive and the last to leave, working tirelessly on his shot mechanics and defensive footwork. Off the court, he’s dedicated to maintaining a disciplined lifestyle, balancing academics with rigorous training sessions and recovery routines.

Early Contributions and Key Strengths

In the early stages of the season, Fears has already shown glimpses of his potential. In exhibition games and non-conference matchups, he’s averaged 15 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 48% from the field. His ability to orchestrate the offense, break down defenses, and create scoring opportunities for teammates has been a game-changer for the Sooners.

One of Fears’ defining attributes is his composure. Despite being a freshman, he plays with the poise of a seasoned veteran, rarely succumbing to pressure in high-stakes situations. This trait was on full display in a recent matchup against a top-25 opponent, where he delivered a clutch three-pointer and a series of critical assists in the closing minutes to secure the victory.

His defensive prowess is another standout aspect of his game. Fears’ lateral quickness, anticipation, and ability to read passing lanes make him a disruptive force on the perimeter. He’s already drawing comparisons to elite defensive guards in the NBA, a testament to his impact on both ends of the floor.

NBA Draft Stock on the Rise

Fears’ combination of skills, mindset, and performance has not gone unnoticed by NBA scouts. As of December 2023, he’s projected as a potential lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, with some analysts suggesting he could climb even higher if he continues to develop at his current pace.

Scouts have highlighted his court vision, decision-making, and defensive versatility as qualities that translate well to the professional level. Additionally, his leadership and work ethic are traits that NBA teams highly value.

“Jeremiah Fears has the tools to be a special player in the NBA,” said one scout during a recent evaluation. “He’s a floor general who makes everyone around him better, and he’s just scratching the surface of his potential.”

Areas for Growth

While Fears’ game is remarkably polished for his age, there are areas where he can improve. One of the primary focuses for him and the OU coaching staff is enhancing his strength and conditioning to better handle the physical demands of SEC play. Additionally, consistency from beyond the arc is another area of emphasis. Though he’s a capable three-point shooter, becoming an elite marksman would further elevate his game and make him an even more dangerous offensive weapon.

Fears has also acknowledged the importance of continuing to develop his leadership skills. As a freshman, he’s still finding his voice within the team dynamic, but his natural charisma and basketball IQ suggest that he’ll grow into a vocal leader as the season progresses.

Impact on OU Basketball

Fears’ arrival has injected new energy into the OU basketball program. The Sooners, who are navigating the transition from the Big 12 to the SEC, are looking to establish themselves as contenders in their new conference. With Fears leading the charge, the team has the potential to make significant strides both this season and in the years to come.

“Jeremiah is the kind of player who can change the trajectory of a program,” Coach Moser said. “He’s not just a great player; he’s a culture-setter. His work ethic and mentality are contagious, and that’s exactly what we need as we compete in the SEC.”

Fears’ presence has also been a major draw for fans and recruits alike. Attendance at Lloyd Noble Center has surged, and the program’s recruiting efforts have gained momentum as other top prospects take notice of OU’s upward trajectory.

Balancing Expectations and Staying Grounded

Despite the accolades and attention, Fears remains focused on the task at hand. He’s quick to credit his teammates and coaches for their support and emphasizes the importance of staying grounded.

“I don’t get caught up in the hype,” Fears said. “I’m here to get better, help my team win, and represent OU the right way. Everything else will take care of itself.”

This level-headed approach has endeared him to fans and teammates alike, reinforcing his reputation as a consummate professional both on and off the court.

Looking Ahead

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Jeremiah Fears as he continues to navigate the challenges of SEC play and solidify his status as one of the nation’s top freshmen. With his talent, determination, and businesslike mindset, there’s little doubt that he’ll leave an indelible mark on OU basketball and position himself for a successful NBA career.

For now, though, Fears is focused on the present. Whether it’s breaking down film, fine-tuning his jump shot, or leading his team in the clutch, he’s committed to making every moment count.

“This is just the beginning,” Fears said. “I have big goals, but I’m taking it one step at a time. I’m here to work, to win, and to keep getting better every day.”

In Jeremiah Fears, the Sooners have found a cornerstone player whose impact could resonate for years to come. As he embarks on his freshman campaign, the basketball world watches with anticipation, eager to see just how far his talent and determination can take him.