The Nets are gearing up to rebuild, starting with the eighth pick in next month’s NBA Draft, and one name that’s been frequently mentioned is Jeremiah Fear.
If you’re thinking the point guard’s style seems familiar, well, it’s intentional.
He’s drawn inspiration from former Brooklyn All-Star Kyrie Irving.
“Looking up to Kyrie Irving helps me understand how to find my spots,” he said, adding that he also models parts of his game after Stephen Curry and Anthony Edwards.
Fear, an 18-year-old freshman from Oklahoma, recently spoke at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago, just days after the Nets ended up with the eighth pick in the lottery. It’s clear that he could be a solid fit for them.
“I wouldn’t mind playing in New York,” he mentioned with a smile.
The Nets seem keen on him, as multiple sources like Athletic, SB Nation, and CBS Sports have hinted that he could land in Brooklyn. He’s currently projected to go fifth in ESPN’s mock draft, with Brooklyn and Washington being the most likely destinations.
“I got to meet with Brooklyn and even worked out with them. The discussion was positive; they expressed confidence in how I might fit into their system,” Fear shared.
It’s evident that the Nets need new talent, and Fear could be a promising primary ball handler for coach Jordi Fernandez to nurture.
This role has been a challenge since Irving’s departure, with short-term solutions like Spencer Dinwiddie and Dennis Schroeder failing to provide stability. Fear could very well be the long-term answer.
“I know I can bring star power to a team,” Fear stated confidently. “I just have to keep trusting in my abilities and hard work.”
Last season, Fear averaged 17.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists. However, due to a heavy focus on mid-range shots, his overall shooting percentage was 43.4%, with a three-point shooting rate of only 28.4% alongside an average of 3.4 turnovers per game.
While his shooting consistency needs improvement, if he joins the Nets, he may find himself under a lot of pressure as part of a rebuilding phase. How he would adapt to that situation is still an open question.
“I hope to continue putting myself in the best possible position, whether we’re winning or losing,” he said, adding that hard work will remain his focus regardless of the circumstances.
Just like Irving, Fear has shown the ability to drive towards the hoop effectively. He’s also looking to add strength to his 6-foot-4 frame.
“I’m not saying I have weaknesses, but I plan to keep building my body,” he explained. “Right now, I weigh 183 pounds, and I’m aiming for 190. I wouldn’t mind being 185, but 190 is my goal.”
Clearly, he has potential but will require some development. Still, he represents a significant opportunity for teams like Brooklyn who are willing to be patient.
“Jeremiah has remarkable speed on the court along with a knack for scoring at multiple levels,” said Oklahoma coach Porter Moser.
And he certainly has confidence to match that skill.
“Expect someone who brings star power,” Fear proclaimed. “I’m not backing down from anyone; I’m here to attack.”
