Iowa exodus? Owen Freeman enters portal, cites coaching change

Field Level Media|published: Sat 15th March, 11:33 2025

NCAA Basketball: Iowa at Southern California

Jan 14, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes forward Owen Freeman (32) dunks the ball against the Southern California Trojans in the second half at the Galen Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Iowa sophomore Owen Freeman entered the transfer portal, one day after the Hawkeyes fired head coach Fran McCaffery.

The Big Ten Freshman of the Year in 2023-24, Freeman's season ended after 19 games due to finger surgery, but averaged 16.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game this season.

Freeman directly cited McCaffery's dismissal as the reason he would depart Iowa City in a social media post Saturday.

"..With the recent coaching change, my family and I have decided it would be in my best interests to enter the transfer portal," Freeman said.

Thank you Iowa?? pic.twitter.com/BM7H4e695n
— Owen Freeman (@_OwenFreeman) March 15, 2025

The 6-foot-10 Freeman is an offensive and defensive force because of his easy athleticism and soft shooting touch. He has 3-point range and is capable of running the floor in an up-tempo offense.

Freeman's departure raises questions about whether high school teammate and sophomore point guard Brock Harding also could leave.

Freeman could enter discussion about the NBA draft because of his size and skill set. His offers coming out of Moline (Ill.) High School included Illinois, Michigan State and Butler.

--Field Level Media