In a stunning development for Iowa basketball, standout forward Owen Freeman has entered the transfer portal, sending shockwaves through the Big Ten.
Freeman’s decision opens doors to programs nationwide seeking his rare combination of scoring prowess, rebounding tenacity, and shot-blocking abilities. Averaging 16.7 points and 6.7 rebounds before his injury, the sophomore represents one of the most coveted big men in this transfer cycle.
Top 5 Potential Landing Spots
NEWS: Iowa big man Owen Freeman has entered the transfer portal, source tells me and @PeteNakos_.
The 6-10 sophomore averaged 16.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game this season.https://t.co/9u0rpKIuDo pic.twitter.com/tdJRAeSuf2
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) March 15, 2025
Marquette Golden Eagles
Shaka Smart’s high-tempo, aggressive system could perfectly showcase Freeman’s athleticism and transition game. With Oso Ighodaro departing, Marquette desperately needs a rim protector and rebounder to maintain defensive efficiency.
Freeman’s shot-blocking and mobility would immediately fill this gap, while Smart’s track record of developing defensive-minded players into NBA prospects offers Freeman the perfect environment to thrive. The Golden Eagles’ style would maximize his strengths while providing opportunities to expand his offensive repertoire.
Michigan State Spartans
Tom Izzo’s legendary track record developing tough, versatile big men like Jaren Jackson Jr. and Xavier Tillman makes it an ideal landing spot. Staying within the Big Ten would allow Freeman to leverage his conference experience while competing for a program with a championship pedigree.
Michigan State needs another strong interior presence alongside their returning forwards, and Freeman would give them a physical post defender capable of handling the conference’s toughest matchups. For a player with Final Four aspirations, few programs offer the consistent tournament success of Izzo’s Spartans.
North Carolina Tar Heels
UNC’s rich history of developing dominant big men, from Tyler Hansbrough to Armando Bacot, makes it an attractive destination. The Tar Heels’ big-man-friendly system emphasizes offensive rebounding and post touches, perfectly complementing Freeman’s skill set.
Hubert Davis’s teams love to push the pace in transition, where Freeman’s mobility and rim-running ability would shine. Defensively, UNC struggled with interior protection last season, making Freeman’s shot-blocking prowess an immediate asset that could transform their defensive schemes while continuing Carolina’s storied post tradition.
Gonzaga Bulldogs
Mark Few has built a program that consistently develops transfer big men into NBA-caliber players, as seen with Drew Timme, Brandon Clarke, and Kelly Olynyk. Gonzaga’s high-efficiency offense maximizes big men who can pass, shoot, and move well, making Freeman an ideal fit as a pick-and-roll finisher.
The Bulldogs’ renowned strength training and skill development could help transform Freeman into a dominant offensive force. With the Pac-12’s decline, Gonzaga remains one of the strongest programs outside the Power Five conferences, offering high exposure and consistent deep tournament runs.
Kentucky Wildcats
Kentucky’s up-tempo system features elite guard play that would create consistent, easy looks for Freeman inside. The program offers unmatched NIL opportunities, allowing Freeman to maximize his personal brand while in college.
KEEP READING: When Does College Basketball Transfer Portal Start? Everything You Need To Know
With Kentucky losing multiple frontcourt players to the NBA draft and graduation, Freeman could immediately step into a starting role and play significant minutes in one of college basketball’s most prestigious and visible programs.
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