It seems Oklahoma star freshman Jeremiah Fears is getting closer to an inevitable decision.
After an outstanding year, especially down the stretch, Fears is a projected lottery pick in the upcoming NBA Draft after just one season with the Sooners.
Fears didn't completely close the door on a possible return to college after OU's season-ending loss to UConn in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday. However, that move is highly unlikely and it would be a shock if Fears didn't enter the NBA Draft.
That looming decision now seems even closer to becoming official. Fears on Monday posted on Instagram a "thank you" to OU that seemed awfully like a goodbye message to Sooner Nation.
"Still kinda shocked the season over but we went out fighting couldn’t ask for a better group of brothers and coaches, bonds that will last a lifetime through the ups and downs we stayed together. Special groups of guys thank you OU basketball," Fears wrote with multiple pictures from this season.
The NBA early entry deadline is April 26. Prospects then have until June 15 to withdraw. Between those dates is the NBA Draft Combine on May 11-18. The NBA Draft is scheduled for June 25-26.
Once Fears confirms his decision, that would put the Sooners at at least nine players from this season's roster leaving because of eligibility or the NBA Draft. That doesn't include players who will certainly enter the transfer portal.
Those leaving OU includes every player from the starting lineup. Fears will definitely be the Sooners' biggest deficit as their leading scorer, averaging 17.1 points a game.