Scouts buy the way Jeremiah Fears can create with tight handles, change of speed and blow-by burst. And there is enough evidence of spot-up 3s, mid-range pull-ups, crafty lay-ins and setup passer to believe an 18-year-old will improve and become a more consistent shotmaker and sharper playmaker.

With 27 points and 10 assists in a win over Mississippi State, he delivered his most complete effort of shotmaking, rim pressure and passing reads.

Still, erratic shooting, turnovers and struggles scoring in traffic have led to his draft stock cooling off. Though he’s been handed a hefty workload, and impressive play early raised the bar, it’s become evident that Fears’ range, decision-making and thin frame point to a lengthier NBA-ready timetable, particularly for a primary ball-handler.