Jeremy Fears draft stock and big decision: Go to NBA or return to MSU?

Michigan State point guard Jeremy Fears Jr. faces a critical decision by May 27: withdraw from the 2026 NBA Draft and return for his fourth college season or pursue an NBA career. The 21-year-old, who entered the draft last year while retaining eligibility, impressed scouts at the NBA Scouting Combine in Chicago, where he trained from May 10-17. An anonymous scout told the Free Press Fears could secure a first-round pick if drafted, though he also has the option to refine his game—particularly his jump shooting and defensive skills—by returning to Michigan State. Fears has scheduled workouts with the Milwaukee and Washington teams and plans to consult his parents, agent Mike Miller, and coach Tom Izzo before finalizing his choice. He emphasized the importance of input from NBA insiders, stating that their guidance would carry the most weight in his decision-making process. The NBA Draft is set for June 23-24 in Brooklyn, New York, with the deadline for early entrants to withdraw approaching. The scout who evaluated Fears at the combine believes he could be a high second-round pick this year but has the potential to climb into the first round if he returns to MSU and improves key aspects of his game. Fears’ brother, Jeremiah, was selected seventh overall in the 2025 draft after one season at Oklahoma, while his former teammate Jase Richardson went 25th in the 2025 draft following his time at Michigan State. The scout highlighted Fears’ pedigree, character, and intensity as assets, suggesting he could elevate his draft stock significantly with another college season. Fears has been training in New York and previously attended the 2025 NBA Draft, where he watched his brother’s selection. His decision hinges on balancing immediate NBA opportunities against the chance to refine his skills and potentially increase his draft value. The scout noted that Fears’ family background—his father played basketball, and his brother is an NBA player—adds to his appeal, but his success will depend on addressing areas like finishing in traffic and defensive play.