Background:

Growing up in the Chicago area, Fears played with his older brother Jeremy in high school, who is currently playing for Michigan State. Originally committing to Illinois, Fears would soon flip to Oklahoma, becoming the highest ranked prospect the Sooners landed since Trae Young. After starting off the year on the bench, Fears would work his way into the starting lineup and would soon emerge as the Sooners’ star. From there, he would lead Oklahoma to an NCAA tournament appearance, where they lost in the Round of 64.

Pros:

Great ball handler

Immense upside as a playmaker

Good shooter

Great finisher

Can score from any level

Pesky on-ball defender

Good rebounder

Clutch gene

Cons:

Needs to improve shot selection

Turnover prone

Bad decision-maker

Needs to improve 3 point shooting

Needs to get stronger for the NBA level

Summary:

Fears does project as a good offensive initiator and scorer. In addition, he offers value in perimeter defense. However, he needs to get stronger if he wants any chance at being successful at the NBA level. His ceiling I’d argue would be the primary lead guard and 2nd or 3rd option on a championship contender, with value as a secondary scorer. At his floor, he’s a good offensive initiator and scorer off the bench.

NBA Comp: Jamal Murray

Best Fits: Nets, Pelicans, Rockets