Illinois and head coach Brad Underwood landed a major commitment to start off their 2025 class. On Monday, 6’2” Jeremiah Fears announced his commitment to play for his home state school and suit up for the Illini.
Fears ranks among the top point guards and prospects in the entire nation. In the new ESPN 2025 rankings, he moved up to the 16th prospect in the nation. He ranks 27th in the Rivals rankings as well as 44th with 24/7 Sports.
The commitment will have Fears headed back to the state of Illinois to play his college basketball where he previously attended high school in. He started his high school career playing at Joliet West High School. Then he made the move for his junior season to transfer to AZ Compass Prep.
The junior chose Illinois over Kansas, Michigan, Ole Miss, and Providence College who were also in his final five. Additionally, Alabama, Arizona, Iowa, Michigan State, and Oregon were included in his top ten. While playing with Brad Beal Elite, Fears averaged 9.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists on the EYBL while playing up at the 17U level.
He marks the first commitment in Illinois 2025 recruiting class. In their 2024 class they hold commitment from power forward Morez Johnson, forward/center Jason Jakstys, and guard Jase Butler.