Pelicans Rookie Jeremiah Fears Shows Promise in Winless 2025 NBA Summer League

The New Orleans Pelicans' 2025 NBA Draft seventh overall pick, Jeremiah Fears, has shown promising development during the NBA Summer League despite the team's 0-4 record. Fears, an 18-year-old guard from Oklahoma, had his best performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder, scoring 22 points with six rebounds and six assists, showcasing his confidence and ball-handling skills even though his shooting and finishing around the basket need improvement. Despite some inconsistent shooting nights and turnovers, Fears' unshaken confidence and aggressive playing style have impressed coaches and analysts alike, suggesting he could be a key playmaker for the Pelicans, especially with Dejounte Murray likely to miss the start of the regular season. Known for his high basketball IQ and leadership, Fears has drawn praise from NBA legend Isiah Thomas, who highlighted his talent and potential to live up to the legacy of great Chicago point guards. The Pelicans see Fears as a vital piece to reshape their offensive identity alongside their young core, aiming to address the gap in backcourt scoring and playmaking. His development in the Summer League provides fans and the team a hopeful preview of his impact in the upcoming season.