Owen Freeman is back in the transfer portal and this time

Owen Freeman is back in the transfer portal and this time, the timing feels different.

Just two years removed from a breakout freshman campaign that earned him Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors, the talented big man is once again on the move after spending a single season at Creighton. The decision comes as a surprise to many around college basketball, especially given the expectations that followed him when he first left Iowa.

Now, questions are swirling: What went wrong? What’s next? And why does one of the most promising young forwards in recent memory still seem to be searching for the right fit?

A Rising Star Who Made Noise Early

Freeman’s name first exploded onto the national radar during his freshman year at Iowa. Thrust into a significant role earlier than expected, he didn’t just hold his own he dominated stretches of the season.

He averaged double figures in scoring, showed advanced footwork in the post, and displayed a level of composure that’s rare for a first-year player. By the end of the season, his stat line told the story: efficient shooting, strong rebounding numbers, and multiple standout performances against top conference opponents.

One of his defining games came in a late-season matchup where he posted over 20 points and grabbed double-digit rebounds, controlling the paint against a veteran frontcourt. That performance, along with several others, helped cement his status as the Big Ten’s top freshman.

But even then, there were whispers questions about fit, system, and long-term development.

The First Move: Leaving Iowa

Despite the individual success, Freeman entered the transfer portal after his freshman season. The move raised eyebrows. Players don’t often leave programs where they’re thriving, especially not after earning conference-wide honors.

Sources close to the situation pointed to a mix of factors: a desire for a different offensive system, a better developmental environment, and perhaps a clearer path to showcasing his versatility beyond traditional post play.

Creighton emerged as the destination a program known for its spacing, ball movement, and ability to develop skilled big men.

On paper, it made sense.

Expectations at Creighton

When Freeman arrived at Creighton, expectations were high. This wasn’t a rebuilding project; this was supposed to be a refinement phase.

He entered the season as a projected starter and a key piece in the Bluejays’ frontcourt rotation. Coaches envisioned him as a versatile big who could score inside, stretch the floor, and anchor the defense.

Early in the season, there were flashes of that potential.

Freeman had games where his scoring efficiency stood out. He showed improved touch around the rim and even hinted at expanding his shooting range. But consistency proved elusive.

A Season of Ups and Downs

Statistically, Freeman’s numbers at Creighton didn’t match the trajectory many expected.

His scoring dipped compared to his freshman year. His minutes fluctuated. There were nights where he looked like the dominant force from Iowa and others where he struggled to find rhythm or stay involved offensively.

In one stretch midseason, he recorded single-digit scoring outputs in multiple consecutive games, a stark contrast to his earlier production. Rebounding numbers also saw inconsistency, particularly against more physical opponents.

Part of the challenge appeared to be adjusting to Creighton’s system. Unlike Iowa’s more traditional approach, Creighton’s offense relies heavily on spacing, perimeter shooting, and quick decision-making.

For a player still refining his game, the transition wasn’t seamless.

The Role Factor

Another key piece of the puzzle: role definition.

At Iowa, Freeman had a clear identity. He was a focal point in the paint, a go-to option in certain sets, and a consistent presence in the rotation.

At Creighton, that role wasn’t always as clearly defined.

With a roster full of experienced players and established scorers, Freeman often found himself adapting rather than leading. There were games where he played limited minutes due to matchup considerations or rotations.

For a young player still building confidence, that kind of fluctuation can be difficult.

The Decision to Enter the Portal Again

After just one season, Freeman has decided to enter the transfer portal once more.

While no official statement has detailed the full reasoning, the move suggests that he’s still searching for the right environment one that aligns with his playing style, development goals, and long-term aspirations.

This isn’t uncommon in today’s college basketball landscape. The transfer portal has reshaped how players navigate their careers, offering flexibility but also creating uncertainty.

Still, Freeman’s situation stands out because of his early success.

Players with his résumé conference honors, proven production, and high-level potential don’t typically bounce between programs this quickly unless something isn’t clicking.

What He Brings to the Table

Despite the recent movement, Freeman remains an intriguing prospect.

At his best, he’s a skilled interior scorer with soft touch around the rim. He has the size and strength to battle in the post, combined with enough mobility to defend multiple frontcourt positions.

His freshman season proved he can produce at a high level. That doesn’t disappear overnight.

He also brings experience valuable experience in two different systems, against high-level competition.

For the right program, Freeman could be a major addition.

What Needs to Improve

That said, there are areas where Freeman will need to grow.

Consistency is at the top of the list.

Coaches will want to see a player who can deliver steady production night in and night out, not just flashes of brilliance. That includes maintaining energy, staying engaged offensively, and making an impact even when the ball isn’t in his hands.

Adapting to different systems is another key factor.

Freeman has now experienced two distinct styles of play. His next destination will likely depend on finding a system that maximizes his strengths rather than forcing him to adjust too drastically.

Defensively, continued development will also be crucial. While he has the tools, improving positioning, awareness, and discipline will elevate his overall impact.

The Bigger Picture

Freeman’s journey highlights a broader trend in college basketball.

The transfer portal has made it easier than ever for players to seek better opportunities but it’s also made finding the “right fit” more complicated.

For some, the first move works perfectly. For others, like Freeman, it becomes a process of trial and adjustment.

There’s still plenty of time for him to find stability.

He’s not a finished product. Far from it.

What Comes Next

As Freeman re-enters the portal, he’s likely to draw significant interest.

Programs in need of frontcourt depth, scoring, and upside will be watching closely. Coaches will evaluate not just his stats, but his trajectory, work ethic, and adaptability.

The next decision will be critical.

It’s not just about playing time it’s about fit, development, and long-term vision.

If he lands in the right situation, there’s every reason to believe he can rediscover and even surpass the form that made him one of the most exciting freshmen in the country.