Elyjah Freeman: A Promising Transfer Prospect with High-Major Potential
Impressive Freshman Campaign at Lincoln Memorial
In 31 career games at Division II Lincoln Memorial University, Elyjah Freeman showcased his all-around game, averaging 18.9 points, 8.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.7 steals while logging 30.9 minutes per contest. His efficiency was particularly impressive—Freeman shot 58.7% from the field, 45.6% from three-point range, and 80.7% from the free-throw line, proving to be a versatile and reliable scorer.
Background and Rising Stock in the Transfer Portal
Despite being a McDonald’s All-American nominee as a senior at Wellington High School in Palm Beach, Florida, Freeman was largely overlooked by Division I programs, receiving just one scholarship offer—from Lincoln Memorial. However, he quickly demonstrated that he was capable of competing at a higher level.
Freeman’s standout freshman season earned him South Atlantic Conference Freshman of the Year honors, and on March 17, he officially entered the transfer portal. Now regarded as a four-star transfer by 247Sports, Freeman has attracted interest from multiple high-major programs. Notably, Kentucky reached out just a day after he entered the portal, and Indiana is also among the schools pursuing him.
Potential Fit at Indiana Under Coach Darian DeVries
Freeman could be a valuable addition to a retooled Indiana roster under newly hired head coach Darian DeVries, who has emphasized the importance of perimeter shooting—an area where the Hoosiers have struggled in recent seasons.
“Shooting is a critical piece,” DeVries said in his introductory press conference on March 19. “… As we move forward and build a roster, we want plenty of depth in the shooting areas because I think you can’t win if you don’t make shots.”
Indiana has already added Tucker DeVries, the coach’s son and a proven perimeter scorer, along with DePaul transfer Conor Enright, who has shot 37.1% from three over his career. Freeman, with his combination of size, athleticism, and outside shooting, could be another key piece.
Although his three-point volume was relatively low—just 57 attempts last season—his 45.6% accuracy and 80.7% free-throw shooting suggest legitimate shooting ability. Freeman was also the third-best free-throw shooter in the South Atlantic Conference, further indicating his scoring potential.
Beyond his shooting, Freeman’s physicality and finishing ability make him a tough cover. He can overpower defenders on drives but also possesses finesse, frequently making acrobatic finishes around the rim. His ability to take over games was evident, as he scored 25+ points on seven occasions, including back-to-back performances of 36 and 35 points in early January.
Can Freeman Make the Leap to High-Major Basketball?
While transitioning from Division II to a power conference will be a challenge, Freeman’s skill set, efficiency, and athleticism indicate that he has the tools to contribute at the next level. If he can maintain his shooting efficiency and continue to develop as a scorer, he could emerge as a valuable asset for Indiana or any high-major program that lands him.
