Pelicans Rookie Jeremiah Fears Sets Franchise Scoring Record in Rout of Jazz

Jordan Poole's 22-point third quarter fuels New Orleans' 156-137 victory over Utah.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:04am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Rookie Jeremiah Fears scored a career-high 40 points and Jordan Poole added 22 of his 34 points in a decisive third quarter as the New Orleans Pelicans closed out their home schedule with a 156-137 victory over the Utah Jazz on Tuesday. The Pelicans set a franchise record for total points in a game as they ended an eight-game losing streak.

Why it matters

The Pelicans' victory showcases the potential of their young roster, with Fears and Poole leading the way, despite missing several key players. The game also highlights the struggles of the Jazz, who have lost 10 straight and are at the bottom of the Western Conference standings.

The details

Rookie Micah Peavy scored a career-high 20 points, Jordan Hawkins added a season-high 25, and rookie Derik Queen had 17 points with 12 rebounds for the Pelicans. Kevon Looney also had 12 rebounds. The Jazz were led by Kennedy Chandler's career-high 31 points and rookie Bez Mbeng's career-best 26 points.

  • The Pelicans closed out their home schedule on Tuesday, April 8, 2026.

The players

Jeremiah Fears

A rookie for the New Orleans Pelicans who scored a career-high 40 points in the game, setting a franchise record for rookie points in a game.

Jordan Poole

A Pelicans player who scored 22 of his 34 points in a decisive third quarter, helping the team pull away from the Jazz.

Micah Peavy

A Pelicans rookie who scored a career-high 20 points in the game.

Jordan Hawkins

A Pelicans player who scored a season-high 25 points in the game.

Derik Queen

A Pelicans rookie who had 17 points and 12 rebounds in the game.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Forty points is a career high for me, and I'm just grateful to be able to contribute to the team's success, even though we're out of playoff contention. I'm excited to keep improving and helping the Pelicans build for the future.”

— Jeremiah Fears, Pelicans Rookie

The takeaway

The Pelicans' young core, led by Fears and Poole, showed their potential in this high-scoring victory, providing hope for the team's future despite a difficult season. Meanwhile, the Jazz's struggles continue as they remain at the bottom of the Western Conference standings.