New Orleans Pelicans rookie forward Jeremiah Fears has developed into one of the NBA’s most effective shooting big men [1, 2].
This evolution alters the Pelicans' offensive dynamic by adding a high-volume perimeter threat at the forward position. His ability to stretch the floor creates more space for teammates, and forces opposing defenses to adjust their coverage of the frontcourt.
Fears finished the 2025-26 season with a versatile statistical profile, averaging 14.3 points per game [2]. He also contributed 3.7 rebounds [2], 3.4 assists [2], and 1.2 steals per game [2]. His efficiency from the charity stripe was notable, as he recorded a 78.9% free-throw percentage [2].
The rookie's rise was rapid, requiring only three games to earn a spot in the starting lineup [2]. By the time the team reached the final nine games of the season, analysts had identified his three-point improvement as a primary driver of his success [1].
Fears and teammate Derik Queen both earned selections to the All-Rookie team [3]. Despite the accolades, Fears said he is not satisfied with his current level of play.
"There's always room for improvement," Fears said [3].
He said he is constantly seeking to improve his shooting to help the team and secure a larger role in the rotation [3]. This commitment to development occurred throughout the season and continued after the campaign ended in April [2, 3].
“"There's always room for improvement."”
The emergence of a 'stretch four' or 'stretch five' is a critical trend in modern NBA offense. By combining traditional big-man size with elite three-point shooting, Fears provides the Pelicans with tactical flexibility, allowing them to pull opposing rim protectors away from the basket and maximize the efficiency of their interior scoring.
