Jeremy Fears grateful to play in March Madness

Michigan State point guard Jeremy Fears is feeling grateful to be participating in March Madness this year. Just 15 months ago, he was recovering from a shooting incident that cut his freshman season short. Fears expressed his thankfulness, saying, “I’m just happy to be in this position and thank God because I could not be playing basketball.” He underwent a three-hour surgery to remove a bullet from his left thigh after being shot while spending time with friends on December 23, 2023. That incident limited him to just 12 games last season. Now, Fears has rebounded well, emerging as a key player for the Spartans, who are set to face 15th-seeded Bryant in the NCAA Tournament. Michigan State coach Tom Izzo praised Fears for his performance, noting he is playing his best basketball lately. Fears' numbers have improved this season, averaging 7.4 points and 5.5 assists. He recently matched his career high with 14 points in a close game against Wisconsin. His progress has contributed to the Spartans becoming surprising contenders this season. Despite their success and winning the Big Ten championship, Fears remains focused. He stated, “We haven’t really done anything yet. We want to win the whole thing.”