Listed at 6-foot-4, Jeremiah Fears from Joliet West High School (Ill.) is hellbent on being a top-five prospect in the 2025 NBA Draft. At just 17 years old, he reclassified to enter the University of Oklahoma a year earlier than anticipated, showcasing his commitment to achieving his lifelong dream of playing in the NBA. Though Fears isn’t currently listed among the top 30 players in the Class of 2024, he’s turning heads on the hardwood. He’s averaged an impressive 17.1 points per game and has carried the Oklahoma Sooners to the NCAA tournament.
Fears’ journey to the NBA began when he outlined three key goals: securing a Division I college offer, playing professionally in the NBA, and becoming a one-and-done player. Of all the influences on Bradley that led him to make the reclassification move, none is more important than his father. He inspired him to live his dreams with relentless determination.
Having come to the University of Oklahoma at such a young age, times were tough, but Fears welcomed the adversity. He reflected on the experience of watching his friends graduate while he continued to hone his skills on the court. “Just looking back, seeing all my friends graduating this year and people I grew up with all my life is definitely an experience,” Fears remarked.
On the court during his freshman year, Fears had a defining moment. This encounter further encouraged and emboldened him in his pursuit of a pro basketball career. During this time, he realized he was ready for the NBA and decided to enter his name into the upcoming draft. His enthusiasm for this chance is palpable and catching. Taking stock of his excitement, he gives it a solid 7 or 7.5 out of 10.
Fears’ competitive spirit fuels him each time he takes the floor. And every time I lace up my shoes to go play, I play hard and I’m coming at you. So, everybody I play against, every opponent I have, they’re going to know, like when I step on the court versus Fears he’s coming,” he stated confidently.
After a standout freshman campaign, Fears is prepping for a breakout sophomore season. He’s set to return to the stage at Barclays Center in Brooklyn for the 2025 NBA Draft. His meteoric rise to center stage has certainly turned a lot of heads. People are convinced that he can do the same at the next level.
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