Michigan State basketball fans might need to start preparing for life without Jeremy Fears Jr.

In ESPN's latest 2026 NBA Mock Draft, star point guard Jeremy Fears Jr. is projected to leave East Lansing and hear his name called on draft night. ESPN's Jeremy Woo has Fears going as the No. 47 overall pick to the Phoenix Suns—a team owned by former Michigan State standout Mat Ishbia.

Fears' future remains uncertain, but head coach Tom Izzo has recently hinted that he expects the talented floor general back for another season. Still, the ESPN projection feels about right for where Fears would land if he decides to make the leap.

Make no mistake: Fears is an elite college point guard. His court vision, defensive tenacity, and leadership have made him a cornerstone of the Spartans' success. However, his size and current shooting limitations could be hurdles at the next level. The modern NBA demands guards who can stretch the floor, and Fears' three-point consistency is still a work in progress.

Another year or two of development in college could be exactly what he needs. If Fears can transform into a dangerous perimeter shooter, he wouldn't just find an NBA home—he'd stick there for the long haul.

That's the calculus every talented young player faces. Fears made a smart move by going through the NBA Draft Combine process, getting direct feedback from teams on how they view his potential. Whether he stays or goes, he's setting himself up for success.