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Auburn Makes Transfer Portal Splash After Final Four Run

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Joshua Rosenblum | Last updated Apr 19, 2025 6:40 PM ET

Fresh off a remarkable Final Four appearance in the 2025 NCAA Tournament, Auburn basketball continues to make waves in the transfer portal.

The Tigers secured a commitment from Division II standout Elyjah Freeman, as announced by Joe Tipton of On3.

The 6-foot-8 freshman small forward, who previously dazzled at Lincoln Memorial University, brings an impressive skill set to Auburn, averaging 18.8 points and 9.2 rebounds per game this past season while shooting 57% from the field and an exceptional 46% from beyond the arc.

Freeman’s commitment marks the Tigers' fifth transfer addition this offseason, underscoring head coach Bruce Pearl’s mastery of the transfer portal—a strategy that has become as critical as high school recruiting in today’s college basketball landscape.

Pearl, who was named SEC Coach of the Year in 2025 and led the program to their second Final Four in program history, has a proven track record of identifying and developing talent.

Freeman joins other notable transfers like Texas Tech’s Kevin Overton, Mississippi State’s KeShawn Murphy, and UCF’s Keyshawn Hall, alongside JUCO standout Emeka Opurum, forming a formidable roster for the 2025-26 season.

The Auburn faithful are buzzing with excitement, as Freeman’s versatility and scoring prowess fill a crucial gap left by the departure of small forward Chad Baker-Mazara.

With at least three years of eligibility remaining, Freeman has the potential to become a cornerstone for the Tigers as they aim to build on their recent success.

Under Pearl’s guidance, Auburn is poised to remain a powerhouse in the SEC and beyond.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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