Jeremiah Fears was selected No. 7 overall by the New Orleans Pelicans, marking a proud moment for Oklahoma basketball.
The 2025 NBA Draft was a night of celebration and new beginnings for many young athletes, but none more so than Jeremiah Fears, the standout guard from the University of Oklahoma. Selected seventh overall by the New Orleans Pelicans, Fears’ journey from a promising college career to becoming a lottery pick represents a major milestone for both himself and Oklahoma basketball. This selection not only marks a proud moment for the Sooners’ program but also sets the stage for an exciting chapter in New Orleans as the Pelicans look to build around their young talent.
Jeremiah Fears: The Rise of an Oklahoma Star
Jeremiah Fears’ ascent to a lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft is the culmination of years of hard work, talent development, and unwavering determination. From his early days in high school to his time at the University of Oklahoma, Fears has consistently impressed coaches, scouts, and fans with his skill, versatility, and leadership.
At Oklahoma, Fears emerged as a key player for the Sooners, known for his scoring ability, sharp shooting, and defensive prowess. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the court made him an indispensable asset and a fan favorite. Throughout his college career, he steadily improved his all-around game, adding maturity and basketball IQ that made him an elite NBA prospect.
The Significance of the No. 7 Pick
Being selected seventh overall in the NBA Draft is a tremendous honor and carries significant expectations. For Jeremiah Fears, this selection validates his hard work and signals that NBA teams see him as a player with the potential to make an immediate impact.
For the University of Oklahoma, Fears’ lottery selection is a proud achievement that highlights the strength of the basketball program. Over the past two decades, only a handful of Sooners have been drafted in the lottery, and Fears joins this elite group alongside names like Blake Griffin, Trae Young, and James Harden. This continues to elevate Oklahoma’s reputation as a breeding ground for NBA talent.
What the Pelicans See in Jeremiah Fears
The New Orleans Pelicans, who secured the No. 7 pick through the NBA Draft Lottery, are an organization focused on building a competitive, young core capable of contending in the Western Conference. The selection of Jeremiah Fears fits perfectly with their vision.
The Pelicans are attracted to Fears’ versatility. Standing around 6’6” with the ability to play both shooting guard and small forward, Fears brings size, athleticism, and skill to multiple positions. His shooting range, defensive instincts, and playmaking capabilities address several of the Pelicans’ roster needs.
Moreover, the Pelicans value Fears’ competitive spirit and leadership qualities, traits that will be vital for a team looking to cultivate a winning culture. The organization believes that with the right development and support, Fears can become a cornerstone player who contributes on both ends and leads the team into the future.
Challenges Ahead: Transitioning to the NBA
While the draft night selection is cause for celebration, the transition from college basketball to the NBA is notoriously challenging, even for lottery picks. Jeremiah Fears will face a higher level of competition, faster pace, and increased physicality.
Adapting to new systems, earning playing time, and handling the pressure of professional expectations will test Fears’ resilience and work ethic. However, his collegiate experience and mental toughness suggest he is well-prepared for these challenges.
The Pelicans have a solid development program, and with veteran players and coaches in place, Fears will have resources to help him adjust and thrive. The key for Fears will be to continue learning, refining his skills, and staying focused on his growth as a professional athlete.
A Proud Moment for Oklahoma Basketball
Jeremiah Fears’ selection as the seventh overall pick is a moment of pride not only for him but for the University of Oklahoma and its basketball community. It serves as a testament to the program’s ability to recruit, develop, and prepare players for the highest levels of competition.
Oklahoma fans have followed Fears’ journey closely, celebrating his achievements and rallying behind him as he takes this next step. His success inspires current and future Sooners, reinforcing the idea that the program is a viable path to the NBA.
Furthermore, Fears’ selection brings positive attention to Oklahoma’s basketball program, which can help in recruiting top talent and elevating the team’s profile nationally.
The Pelicans’ Future with Fears
The New Orleans Pelicans enter a critical phase as they aim to build a competitive team around their young core, which includes stars like Zion Williamson (assuming health), Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum. Adding Jeremiah Fears to this mix bolsters the team’s depth and versatility.
Fears’ ability to contribute as a scorer, defender, and playmaker gives the Pelicans flexibility in how they construct their lineups and game plans. His youth and potential also provide the team with a building block for sustained success.
Pelicans fans are hopeful that Fears’ work ethic and skill set will translate into meaningful contributions early in his career, helping the team secure more wins and playoff appearances in the coming years.
The Expectations Moving Forward
As a top-10 draft pick, Jeremiah Fears will face heightened expectations from fans, media, and the organization. He is expected to develop into a key contributor and potentially a future leader.
To meet these expectations, Fears will need to stay committed to his development, both on and off the court. This includes refining his shooting consistency, expanding his defensive capabilities, and improving his decision-making under pressure.
Additionally, managing the physical demands of an 82-game NBA season and maintaining peak conditioning will be crucial.
With the right mindset and support system, Fears has the tools necessary to not only meet but exceed these expectations.
Looking Ahead: Impact on the University of Oklahoma’s Legacy
Jeremiah Fears’ successful transition to the NBA will have a lasting impact on the University of Oklahoma’s basketball legacy. It will add to the growing list of Sooners who have made an impression at the professional level, enhancing the program’s prestige.
As Oklahoma continues to develop NBA talent, future recruits will see the program as a pathway to their own professional dreams. This success can create a virtuous cycle, attracting better talent, increasing competitiveness, and elevating the team’s profile in college basketball.
Moreover, Fears’ journey will be celebrated as a model for young athletes balancing talent, hard work, and perseverance to achieve their goals.
Jeremiah Fears’ selection as the No. 7 overall pick by the New Orleans Pelicans is more than just a personal achievement — it is a moment of pride for the University of Oklahoma, the Pelicans organization, and basketball fans who appreciate the rise of a new star.
As Fears embarks on his NBA career, he carries the hopes of his hometown, his college community, and his new professional team. The road ahead will be challenging, but with his talent, dedication, and support, Jeremiah Fears is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the NBA.
For the Sooners, this is a reminder of the program’s growing influence and ability to shape future professional stars. For the Pelicans, it is a chance to add a dynamic young player to a promising roster. And for basketball fans everywhere, it is the start of an exciting new chapter in the career of one of the game’s most promising young talents.
