The Philadelphia 76ers won’t know the status of their first-round pick until the lottery on May 12 as the pick is only top 6 protected. However, if the Sixers do end up keeping that pick, then there are going to be plenty of options for President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey and Co. to choose from.
It’s time to look at some potential draft prospects. The Sixers will have plenty of talented players to choose from and add to their stockpile of young pieces. It’s time to really break down the games of each of these prospects and see who best fits a Philadelphia team still focused on contending in the 2025-26 season if it can get some injury luck for once.
Up next in this series is Oklahoma guard Jeremiah Fears who had himself a terrific season with the Sooners. If the Sixers want to shore up some depth and add to the second unit, then Fears would be a terrific pickup as somebody who can contribute right away.
Here is a draft profile of Fears highlighting his strengths, weaknesses, and his potential fit:
Fears’ 2024-25 statsCategoryPPGAPGRPGSPGFG%3FG%Fears’ numbers17.14.14.11.643.4%28.4%Strengths
A cerebral point guard, Fears has the ability to drive and finish at the basket with an innate ability to go up and around taller defenders. He has a strong body so he can take some contact while being able to finish through it and that helps enhance his pick-and-roll game. A lot of times, Oklahoma was able to just lean on him and he led the way. Not only is he physical on his drives, but he is shifty and creative enough to make defenses think twice about what his next move might be. The 3-point shot needs work, but there are good signs with his jumper as some expect that to not be a problem at the next level.
Weaknesses
As good as he is as a playmaker, he does turn the ball over often. He averaged 3.4 turnovers in college so that is something that will have to nipped in the bud once he gets to the league. Also, the shot selection does have to improve. Too often he would attempt tougher 3s late in the shot clock or even get to the basket and try some acrobatic finish. While has the talent to do those things, he does have to be better at deciding when to go for his own offense and when to make plays for others.
Potential fit
The Sixers are loaded with a lot of guards at the moment. They have Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain for the long term and the hope is that Quentin Grimes will return in free agency, but coach Nick Nurse will never turn down depth at the ball-handling position. While Morey will likely have other players in mind, Fears can play a role for the Sixers immediately if they go this route.