SouthernWorldwide.com – Michigan State guard Jeremy Fears Jr. has decided to return for his fourth season with the Spartans, according to a report from CBS.
Fears had a standout 2025-26 season, averaging 15.2 points per game. He also led the entire nation in assists, dishing out an impressive 9.4 per game.
Following his exceptional performance, Fears entered his name into the NBA Draft pool to explore professional opportunities. He remained in the draft process until the very last moment.
The deadline to withdraw from the NBA Draft was Wednesday, May 27, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Fears ultimately made the decision to stay in East Lansing for another collegiate season.
Jeremy Fears Jr. is seen as a player who embodies the culture that head coach Tom Izzo has cultivated at Michigan State. In today’s college basketball landscape, where player transfers are common, Fears has demonstrated a pattern of steady development under Izzo’s guidance.
As he returns for the 2026-27 season, Fears will be joined by teammates who have also followed a similar developmental trajectory. Among them are Coen Carr and Kur Teng.
The roster will also feature key contributions from rising sophomores Jordan Scott and Cam Ward. Additionally, Kaleb Glenn, who redshirted after transferring from FAU, is expected to be an important part of the team.
Michigan State has a strong track record of player retention, meaning they typically do not heavily rely on the transfer portal. However, this past season saw some roster changes.
Guard Divine Ugochukwu transferred to LSU. Forwards Carson Cooper and Jaxon Kohler both graduated after the season concluded.
In response to these departures, the Spartans did utilize the transfer portal. They successfully recruited Anton Bonke from Charlotte. Notably, Bonke, much like Fears, had also entered the NBA Draft pool before ultimately deciding to return to Michigan State.
Fears’ return is a significant boost for the Spartans. He was recognized for his outstanding play during the 2025-26 season, earning a spot on the All-Big Ten First Team.
Looking ahead to the 2026-27 season, Fears is expected to be a strong contender for the Bob Cousy Award. This prestigious award is given annually to the nation’s best point guard.
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Had Fears remained in the NBA Draft, it would have substantially impacted Michigan State’s aspirations. Their chances of contending for a national championship would have been significantly diminished.
