Former Joliet West High School standout Jeremiah Fears has now etched his name into NBA record books less than a year into his professional career. Fears scored 40 points to set a New Orleans Pelicans rookie record, leading New Orleans to a 156-137 win over the Utah Jazz on 04/07/2026.
The 19-year-old guard delivered a complete performance, finishing 17-of-29 from the field while adding six assists, five rebounds, and three steals. His performance on Tuesday placed him in rare territory as he became the fourth-youngest player in NBA history to score 40 or more points in a game and the youngest guard in NBA history to do so, joining GG Jackson, LeBron James, and Cooper Flagg.
The night was huge, says Fears during the Pelicans’ post-game interview. Credit to my teammates, I think they did a really good job continuing to talk to me throughout the whole game. Before the game, they said a lot of guys were out, and they needed me to step up, and I think I did a pretty good job of it tonight.
New Orleans, playing without several key starters including Zion Williamson and Dejounte Murray, leaned heavily on its rookie guard. The result was one of the most explosive offensive performances in franchise history. The Pelicans finished with a record 156 points and poured in 50 points in the third quarter alone, another franchise best.
Jeremiah Fears attacked the rim, controlled the pace, and dictated the offense with a level of confidence that has steadily grown throughout the season. Even with his outside shot limited — just 1-of-7 from three — he found ways to dominate the game.
His development has been defined by patience, adaptability, and a growing command of the offense, traits that were on full display throughout Tuesday’s performance. With extended minutes and a larger role, Fears responded with the most complete performance of his young career, one that may signal more than just a single breakout game.
At this young age, to do that. The skills, the pace, the strength to go and do this is elite, says James Borrego, the New Orleans Pelicans Head Coach.
I’m really proud of his growth. The franchise is in a really good place because of players like him.
For a Pelicans team searching for direction, Jeremiah Fears emergence offers something tangible. Fears’ record-setting night marks a defining moment early in his career.
He played with the same confidence that has defined his rise — no hesitation, no slowdown, and on this night, 0 Fears.
