Last Updated on April 14, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

Enrique Gabriel Freeman is an American professional basketball player known for his remarkable journey from a walk-on at the University of Akron to playing in the NBA.

Player Profile

Personal Information:

  • Full Name: Enrique Gabriel Freeman
  • Nationality: American
  • Date of Birth: July 29, 2000
  • Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio, USA
  • Height: 6 feet 7 inches (201 cm)
  • Weight: 206 pounds (93 kg)
  • Wingspan: 6 feet 8 inches
  • Shoe Size: Size 14 (US)

Basketball Career:

  • Position: Forward
  • Jersey Number: 8
  • High School: St. Martin de Porres High School (Cleveland, Ohio)
  • College: University of Akron (2019–2024)
  • NBA Draft: Selected 50th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers
  • Professional Teams:
    • Indiana Pacers (2024–present)
    • Indiana Mad Ants (2024–present, via two-way contract)
  • Championship Rings: None to date

College Achievements:

  • Led the NCAA in rebounds per game (12.9) during the 2023–24 season
  • Recorded 31 double-doubles in the 2023–24 season, tying the NCAA single-season record
  • Named Mid-American Conference (MAC) Player of the Year in 2024
  • Earned Associated Press All-America Honorable Mention honors in 2024
  • Finished his collegiate career with 1,843 points, 1,405 rebounds, and 188 blocks

Professional Career:

  • Signed a two-way contract with the Indiana Pacers on August 8, 2024
  • Made his NBA debut on October 23, 2024, contributing 2 points in a win against the Detroit Pistons

Personal Life:

  • Children: None
  • Siblings: Information not publicly available

Player Archetype / Play Style

Enrique Freeman fits the mold of an energy forward and interior finisher whose archetype is built on rebounding, activity and complementary two-way play rather than self-created offense. Defensively, he projects as a versatile frontcourt helper who can protect the rim in spots, switch more comfortably than most undersized bigs and make plays with timing, discipline and relentless effort. Offensively, his best work comes as a screener, cutter, transition runner and second-chance scorer, with enough touch around the basket and some face-up skill to keep defenses honest even if he is not a primary creator. Physically, Freeman is undersized for a traditional center but compensates with a strong frame, plus length, quick leaping ability and nonstop motor. Altogether, his style is rugged, efficient and team-friendly: he wins possessions on the glass, finishes what others create, defends with energy and gives lineups a dependable hustle-based presence that can raise the floor of a rotation. Sources: (NBA)

NBA.com — NBA 2024 Draft Prospects | Enrique Freeman
Akron Zips — Enrique Freeman – 2023-24 Men’s Basketball Roster
No Ceilings — There’s More Than Meets the Eye With Enrique Freeman
Sports Illustrated — NBA Draft Scouting Report: Akron’s Enrique Freeman