When it comes to the most valuable player in college basketball, Jeremy Fears is making a compelling case. While the Naismith Award traditionally honors the most outstanding player, Fears' value to his team is undeniable.
The numbers tell the story. According to CBB Analytics, Fears leads the nation in "points created," a testament to his impact on the court.
This isn't just about assists; it's about being the catalyst for scoring plays. Fears has been directly involved in 978 points this season, outpacing talents like Christian Anderson and Braden Smith.
So, what does "points created" mean for Fears? It means he's been instrumental in nearly half of Michigan State's scoring plays.
If we exclude free throws, Fears has contributed to 59.7% of the team's field goals. That's an astonishing figure and a clear indicator of his All-American caliber.
Fears' All-American credentials are further solidified by his leadership in assists per game. He's on the verge of breaking the Big Ten's single-season assists record, currently held by Braden Smith at 313. With five regular-season games and at least two postseason matchups remaining, Fears is poised to surpass this milestone, maintaining his impressive 9.3 assists per game average.
But it's not just his passing prowess that stands out. Fears is a defensive powerhouse and averages 15.1 points per game, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the floor. His ability to excel in multiple facets of the game makes him a standout point guard.
Jeremy Fears' performance this season leaves little doubt about his place as a first-team All-American. His contributions are not only statistically impressive but also invaluable to Michigan State's success.