Jeremiah Fears is the 4th Oklahoma player to be selected in the top 10 of the NBA draft in the last 20 years

The 2025 NBA Draft marked a historic moment for the University of Oklahoma basketball program as Jeremiah Fears became only the fourth Sooner selected in the top 10 of the NBA Draft in the last 20 years. This milestone not only celebrates Fears’ individual talent and hard work but also highlights the rising prominence of Oklahoma basketball on the national stage.

In this comprehensive overview, we’ll explore Fears’ journey to the NBA, the significance of his top-10 selection for the Sooners, the legacy of Oklahoma’s other high draft picks, and the promising future that lies ahead for both Fears and the program.

Jeremiah Fears’ Journey to Stardom

Jeremiah Fears arrived at Oklahoma with high expectations as a highly touted recruit. Throughout his collegiate career, he demonstrated why NBA scouts were eager to watch him closely. Fears combines an impressive blend of athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive prowess — traits that are essential for success at the professional level.

Standing around 6’6” with a versatile skill set, Fears can play multiple positions on the perimeter. His shooting mechanics have been refined over time, allowing him to knock down shots from beyond the arc consistently. Equally important is his ability to drive aggressively to the basket, drawing fouls and finishing through contact. On defense, Fears uses his length and quickness to guard multiple positions, disrupting opposing offenses and contributing to Oklahoma’s defensive schemes.

Beyond his physical tools, Fears is praised for his work ethic, basketball IQ, and leadership on the court. Coaches and teammates alike speak highly of his maturity and ability to perform in clutch moments. This blend of physical and intangible qualities made him a standout prospect entering the draft.

The Significance of a Top-10 Draft Pick

Being selected in the top 10 of the NBA draft is a major accomplishment, signifying that a player is viewed as one of the most talented prospects available. For Oklahoma, Fears’ high selection is particularly meaningful because it places him among an exclusive group of Sooners who have reached this level of draft prestige.

A top-10 pick often comes with great expectations. NBA franchises invest significant resources in scouting and development to maximize the potential of these highly regarded players. This status not only provides Fears with a strong start to his professional career, often including lucrative contracts and endorsement opportunities, but it also places him in a position to become a franchise cornerstone.

Moreover, Fears’ selection shines a spotlight on Oklahoma’s basketball program, proving that the school can develop elite NBA-level talent. This can have a ripple effect, helping with recruiting, boosting fan support, and elevating the program’s national reputation.

Oklahoma’s Previous Top-10 Draft Picks in the Last 20 Years

To fully appreciate the significance of Fears’ selection, it’s important to look back at the three other Oklahoma players drafted in the top 10 over the last two decades. Their success stories have helped build a foundation for the program and offer a benchmark for Fears’ own career trajectory.

1. Blake Griffin (1st Overall, 2009)

Blake Griffin is arguably the most famous Oklahoma player drafted in recent memory. Selected as the first overall pick by the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2009 NBA Draft, Griffin quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier power forwards. Known for his explosive athleticism, highlight-reel dunks, and improving all-around game, Griffin became a multiple-time NBA All-Star and a fan favorite.

His success helped put Oklahoma basketball on the map and inspired future Sooners, including Jeremiah Fears, to believe that reaching the NBA’s elite levels was achievable from Norman, Oklahoma.

2. Trae Young (5th Overall, 2018)

Trae Young, drafted fifth overall by the Atlanta Hawks in 2018, is another Sooner who made an immediate impact at the NBA level. Young’s shooting range, playmaking, and scoring ability quickly established him as a franchise cornerstone and one of the league’s brightest young stars.

Young’s success has contributed to a renewed excitement around Oklahoma basketball, showing that the program can produce dynamic guards who thrive in the modern NBA’s pace-and-space style.

3. James Harden (3rd Overall, 2009)

James Harden, taken third overall in the 2009 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder, was another key Oklahoma product who became a superstar in the league. Known for his scoring ability, step-back three-pointer, and ability to draw fouls, Harden evolved into one of the NBA’s most prolific offensive players, winning an MVP award and multiple scoring titles.

Harden’s trajectory from Oklahoma to NBA stardom set a high bar for future players like Fears, demonstrating that elite talent could flourish from the program.

What Jeremiah Fears’ Selection Means for Oklahoma Basketball

Fears’ top-10 draft selection is a reaffirmation that Oklahoma’s basketball program continues to develop NBA-ready talent capable of competing at the highest level. This achievement can help attract future elite recruits who see the program as a launching pad to the NBA.

Head Coach Porter Moser and his staff have emphasized player development, and Fears’ success is evidence that this philosophy is bearing fruit. The program’s ability to mold players with diverse skill sets ready for the modern NBA style — including scoring, versatility, and defensive capability — is vital to maintaining competitiveness both in college and at the next level.

Additionally, Fears’ success adds to the university’s basketball legacy, inspiring current and future players to work hard and aim high. It also strengthens the bond between the university and its fan base, creating a sense of pride and anticipation for upcoming seasons.

Challenges and Expectations for Jeremiah Fears in the NBA

While the excitement around Fears’ top-10 selection is well-deserved, it’s important to recognize the challenges that lie ahead. Transitioning from college to the NBA involves adapting to faster pace, stronger and more athletic opponents, and more complex systems.

The expectations on top-10 picks are immense. Fears will be expected not only to contribute but to develop into a key player quickly. This requires continued improvement in areas such as decision-making, consistency, and physical conditioning.

Fortunately, Fears’ work ethic and maturity provide a strong foundation for this transition. With proper coaching and support, he has the tools to meet these challenges and fulfill the promise that his draft position suggests.

Jeremiah Fears’ selection as the fourth Oklahoma player taken in the top 10 of the NBA draft over the past 20 years is a significant milestone for both the athlete and the program. Joining the ranks of Blake Griffin, Trae Young, and James Harden, Fears carries the legacy of Sooners who have achieved NBA stardom and left a lasting impact on the sport.

This achievement underscores the growth of Oklahoma basketball and its ability to compete on the national stage as a producer of elite talent. For Fears, the journey is just beginning — with high expectations and a bright future ahead in the NBA.

As the basketball world watches Jeremiah Fears’ career unfold, his story will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Sooners and serve as a testament to what dedication, talent, and the right development environment can achieve.