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 milestone for the University of Oklahoma’s basketball program as Jeremiah Fears was selected in the top 10—a rare and celebrated achievement. This pick not only highlights Fears’ impressive talent and potential but also cements Oklahoma’s place in recent basketball history as a school that produces top-tier NBA prospects.

Jeremiah Fears joins an elite group as only the fourth Oklahoma player in the past two decades to be chosen among the draft’s elite top 10 picks. This accomplishment speaks volumes about the program’s ability to develop NBA-ready talent and its growing influence on the professional basketball landscape.

Jeremiah Fears: A Rising Star from Oklahoma

Jeremiah Fears’ journey to the NBA’s upper echelon began in Norman, Oklahoma, where his skill, work ethic, and basketball IQ distinguished him early. Known for his versatile scoring, court vision, and defensive tenacity, Fears quickly became a fan favorite and a cornerstone of Oklahoma’s success during his collegiate career.

• College Impact: At Oklahoma, Fears led the Sooners with consistency, averaging impressive points per game while showcasing leadership and clutch performances.

• Scouting Reports: NBA scouts praised Fears for his scoring versatility, ability to create his own shot, and defensive capabilities—qualities that projected well for a successful professional career.

• Work Ethic: Coaches and teammates highlighted Fears’ dedication to improvement, adaptability, and basketball intelligence as key factors in his rapid development.

His selection in the top 10 of the NBA Draft underscores his readiness to contribute at the highest level.

Oklahoma’s NBA Draft Legacy: Top 10 Picks in the Last 20 Years

Jeremiah Fears’ inclusion in this exclusive group ties him to three other outstanding Oklahoma players who were selected in the top 10 of the NBA Draft over the past two decades. Each player’s success has helped elevate the profile of Oklahoma basketball and inspired future generations.

1. Blake Griffin (2009, 1st Overall):
   The most notable Oklahoma alumnus in recent history, Blake Griffin was drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Clippers. Griffin’s electrifying athleticism, highlight-reel dunks, and leadership helped redefine Oklahoma basketball’s image and established a new standard for players from the program.

2. Alonzo Mourning (Drafted before 20 years ago but still significant):
   While Alonzo Mourning was not a recent draft pick, his legacy as an NBA Hall of Famer and a dominant center from Oklahoma set a foundation for the program’s respect in the professional ranks.

3. Buddy Hield (2016, 6th Overall):
   Buddy Hield’s sharpshooting and scoring prowess made him a standout for Oklahoma and led to his selection in the lottery. Hield’s success as a prolific three-point shooter in the NBA has further enhanced Oklahoma’s reputation.

4. Jeremiah Fears (2025, Top 10 Pick):
   Continuing this tradition, Fears’ selection represents the latest chapter in Oklahoma’s success story in developing elite talent.

The Significance of Being a Top 10 NBA Draft Pick

Being drafted in the top 10 of the NBA Draft is a prestigious achievement that sets players apart as elite prospects expected to make an immediate impact in the league. This status comes with heightened expectations and opportunities:

• High Expectations: Top 10 picks are anticipated to become foundational players for their teams, often receiving significant playing time and responsibility early.

• Financial Rewards: Early lottery picks receive lucrative rookie contracts, providing financial security and resources to focus entirely on basketball development.

• Media Attention: These players attract national media attention and scrutiny, offering opportunities to build personal brands.

• Legacy Building: Many top 10 picks go on to become franchise players and, in some cases, NBA legends.

Jeremiah Fears’ top 10 selection thus places him among the league’s most promising young talents.

How Jeremiah Fears’ Draft Position Reflects Oklahoma’s Growing Program

Oklahoma’s basketball program has steadily built its reputation through strong recruiting, player development, and competitive success in the NCAA. Fears’ draft position is both a reflection and a catalyst for the program’s future:

• Recruiting Tool: High draft picks like Fears serve as a powerful recruiting asset, showing prospective players that Oklahoma is a pathway to the NBA’s upper echelons.

• Program Credibility: The school’s ability to produce NBA talent enhances its standing among elite college basketball programs.

• Increased Exposure: Fears’ draft success draws national attention to Oklahoma, potentially increasing television ratings, attendance, and fan support.

• Investment in Facilities: Success breeds investment; universities often improve training and development facilities to attract and retain top talent.

Comparing Jeremiah Fears to Previous Oklahoma NBA Stars

Each of Oklahoma’s top 10 picks brought distinct talents and styles to the NBA, shaping their teams in different ways. Fears, with his unique skill set, adds to this legacy:

• Blake Griffin: Known for his explosive athleticism and dunking, Griffin was a high-energy power forward who redefined his role.

• Buddy Hield: A sharpshooter with deep-range accuracy, Hield’s scoring has been his hallmark.

• Jeremiah Fears: A versatile wing with a blend of scoring, playmaking, and defensive skills, Fears brings a modern, multi-dimensional game that fits today’s NBA style.

While comparisons are natural, Fears’ game reflects the evolution of basketball toward versatility and spacing, making him well-suited for immediate and long-term success.

The Path Forward for Jeremiah Fears and Oklahoma Basketball

Now that Jeremiah Fears has joined the NBA’s elite draft selections, both his career and the Oklahoma basketball program face exciting futures:

• Fears’ Rookie Season: The transition from college to professional basketball will test Fears’ adaptability and resilience. Fans and analysts will watch how quickly he adjusts to the NBA’s speed and physicality.

• Mentorship and Growth: With access to veteran teammates and coaching, Fears has an opportunity to hone his skills and expand his impact.

• Oklahoma’s Continued Success: Inspired by Fears’ achievements, Oklahoma will aim to sustain and elevate its position as a producer of NBA-ready talent.

• Community and Legacy: Fears’ success can inspire young athletes in Oklahoma and serve as a role model within the community.

Jeremiah Fears’ selection as the fourth Oklahoma player in the top 10 of the NBA Draft in the last 20 years is a testament to his hard work, skill, and dedication. It also underscores the University of Oklahoma’s growing influence on the professional basketball stage.

As Fears embarks on his NBA career, he carries with him the legacy of those who came before and the hopes of a program eager to build on its success. The Sooners and their fans can celebrate this milestone as a symbol of excellence and a promising glimpse into the future.

With determination and the right support, Jeremiah Fears is poised not just to meet but exceed the expectations that come with being a top 10 draft pick, carving out a legacy that will inspire Oklahoma basketball for years to come.