In the 2024 NBA Draft, the New Orleans Pelicans made a bold move by selecting Jeremiah Fears with the seventh overall pick, instantly raising hopes for the franchise’s future. The decision has drawn significant attention due to the growing Jeremiah Fears Kyrie Irving comparison, highlighting the young guard’s potential to influence the team’s playing style early on.
Impressive College Performance Signals Promising NBA Career
Fears stood out during his freshman year at the University of Oklahoma, posting averages of 17.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. His skillful performance earned him a spot on the SEC All-Freshman team and marked him as one of the nation’s most exciting prospects. ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith captured the enthusiasm surrounding Fears by calling him the “second coming of Kyrie Irving,” a comparison that underscores the expectations for his ball-handling creativity and scoring ability.
A Milestone for Oklahoma Basketball’s NBA Legacy
The Pelicans’ selection of Fears continues the legacy of Oklahoma players entering the NBA, as he is the first Sooner drafted since Trae Young in 2018. Fears is also the fourth player from Oklahoma to be taken in the top ten since 2010, reflecting the university’s status as an emerging talent pipeline. This historical context adds importance to Fears’ arrival, as he carries the hopes of his college program onto the professional stage.
Pelicans Make Strategic Moves to Build Around Fears
New Orleans further demonstrated its commitment to reshaping the roster by trading its 2026 unprotected pick to claim Derik Queen, Fears’ teammate at Oklahoma, with the 13th overall pick. The duo’s established chemistry could become a valuable asset as they transition to the NBA together. Observers are eager to see how their complementary playing styles might help the Pelicans develop a distinctive and competitive identity.
Expert Optimism Fuels Anticipation
Veteran NBA player Jeff Teague voiced strong support for involving Fears in the Pelicans’ gameplay from the start, stating,
“I hope they let him play immediately. I hope they just hand him the ball.”
—Jeff Teague, Former NBA Player
This perspective echoes the wider excitement about Fears’ potential impact, suggesting he could become a key offensive weapon for the team right away. Fans and analysts share a hopeful outlook on how Fears might change the Pelicans’ dynamics and enhance their scoring threats.
Looking Ahead: The Path to Revival in the NBA
As the Pelicans begin the next chapter with Jeremiah Fears at the center, the comparisons to Kyrie Irving serve as a measure of the expectations placed on him. Should he harness his skills effectively within the Pelicans’ setup, Fears could emerge as the catalyst for the team’s resurgence in the competitive NBA landscape. The organization’s future plans revolve around nurturing his talent and leveraging his creativity to reshape their fortunes.
This draft pick represents more than just an addition to the roster; it signals the Pelicans’ vision for renewal and growth. Observers will be closely watching how Fears adapts and performs as the season unfolds, shaping the narrative of his promising professional journey.