Full Breakdown
Jeremy Fears Jr. and Thomas Haugh Lead AP Preseason All-America Team
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: AP Preseason All-America Selections
On Wednesday, the Associated Press released its 2026-27 preseason All-America men’s basketball team. Guard Jeremy Fears Jr. of Michigan State received 57 of 58 votes, while forward Thomas Haugh of Florida earned 56 votes. The remaining spots went to Vanderbilt guard Tyler Tanner (43 votes), Illinois forward David Mirkovic (24 votes) and Arizona center Motiejus Krivas (17 votes). The panel’s selections were based on the players’ performances in the 2025-26 season and their decisions to return for another collegiate year.
Background & Context
Both Fears and Haugh postponed potential NBA draft selections to lead their programs. Fears, a redshirt junior from Joliet, Illinois, averaged 15.2 points and a nation-leading 9.4 assists per game in 2025-26, helping Michigan State reach the Sweet Sixteen and earn a No. 6 ranking in the preseason Top 25 poll. Haugh, a senior from New Oxford, Pennsylvania, posted 17.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, guiding Florida to the SEC regular-season title and a Round of 32 appearance, and positioning the Gators as the AP preseason No. 1 team.
Data & Statistics
- Jeremy Fears Jr.: 15.2 points, 9.4 assists (nation-leading), 88.5 % free-throw percentage, 3.86 assist-to-turnover ratio.
- Thomas Haugh: 17.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists per game.
- Team Rankings: Michigan State – No. 6 in the AP preseason Top 25; Florida – No. 1 in the AP preseason poll.
- Vote Totals: Fears – 57 votes; Haugh – 56 votes; Tanner – 43 votes; Mirkovic – 24 votes; Krivas – 17 votes (Associated Press).
Official Statements & Responses
Both players emphasized their commitment to team success. Fears highlighted the depth of Michigan State’s roster, while Haugh framed the upcoming season as a decisive push for a national title. Florida’s coaching staff, led by head coach Todd Golden, reiterated confidence in the veteran-heavy lineup, noting that the preseason accolades align with the program’s championship aspirations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think we have the pieces” — Jeremy Fears Jr., guard, Michigan State (Associated Press)
- “It’s national championship or bust for this team,” — Thomas Haugh, forward, Florida (Associated Press)
Timeline
- October 20, 2026 – Fears recorded 23 points and eight assists in an exhibition loss to UConn.
- Wednesday (date not specified) – AP announced the preseason All-America team.
What’s Next
The 2026-27 college basketball season opens in early November, with both Michigan State and Florida slated to begin conference play in December. The preseason honors position Fears and Haugh as focal points for their teams’ championship bids.