How Iowa basketball fans reacted to Owen Freeman entering the transfer portal

[ASFN Admin]

In the wake of Iowa firing longtime head men's basketball head coach Fran McCaffery, the Hawkeyes are now juggling roster churn to accompany the change in leadership.

Iowa sophomore forward Owen Freeman announced on Saturday morning that he was entering the NCAA transfer portal, citing the Hawkeyes' coaching change as the reason why.

Freeman leaves Iowa City after appearing in 53 games and starting 44 over his two seasons in the black and gold. The 6-foot-10 forward led Iowa in points (16.7), rebounds (6.7) and blocks (1.8) per game this season while shooting 63.8% from the field and 60.0% from the free throw line.

Freeman's season ended prematurely when he was shelved after sustaining a finger injury that required surgery. The Moline, Ill., native played and started in 19 games this season.

"I am forever grateful for my two years in Iowa City. Being able to play in the black and gold has been nothing but amazing. Iowa City will always hold a place in my heart," Freeman said in his social media post.

As Freeman hits the portal, Iowa basketball fans had plenty of reactions to the news of his departure.

All the best to you @_OwenFreeman - you’ve been a joy to watch play and cover. https://t.co/BSkdcIm9UU

— On3 Hawkeye Images (@webcentrick) March 15, 2025

NEWS: Iowa sophomore big man Owen Freeman has entered the transfer portal, source told ESPN. Will be a highly sought-after prospect. Averaged 16.7 points and 6.7 rebounds this season, missed the final six weeks with a finger injury.

— Jeff Borzello (@jeffborzello) March 15, 2025

Not a shocker, but a major loss for the program moving forward

The ripple effect begins https://t.co/1P0LCDKXsS

— Blake Hornstein (@BlakeHornTV) March 15, 2025

Going to be tough to watch Owen dominate somewhere else..

— (@ChinLovesIowa) March 15, 2025

It is what it is, I get it, going to have new people in Iowa City too, so thats going to be exciting as well..

— (@ChinLovesIowa) March 15, 2025

Hope that finger heals up quick!

— Rick Webster (@TheRickWebster) March 15, 2025

Confirms what we thought. The team and Fran has known for about a month

— Rick Webster (@TheRickWebster) March 15, 2025

It sucks but not at all surprised. Pretty much knew he was going as soon as he went out for surgery. https://t.co/jq3IsG4wom

— ™ (@hawkeyeinmd) March 15, 2025

A no contact when you hit the portal screams tampering imo

— austin (@AustinJRoberts) March 15, 2025

Anyway....

— FELTS (PAIN) (@Zhawk44) March 15, 2025

He already knows exactly where he's going. https://t.co/8yosUC5a5J

— Brendan Stiles (@thebstiles) March 15, 2025

It’s fine to say you’re leaving, but let’s not pretend it’s because Fran was shown walking papers.

This was already decided long ago.

Best of luck wherever that is, have a feeling that will be very soon. pic.twitter.com/DQWulA4RI0

— Joe Hugen (@Joe_Hugen) March 15, 2025

This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Iowa basketball fans react to Owen Freeman entering transfer portal

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