Departure News: Elyjah Freeman, Standout Freshman at Lincoln Memorial, Eyes Tennessee as Potential Transfer Destination
One of Division II basketball’s most promising young stars is exploring a major move. Elyjah Freeman, who took the court by storm during his freshman season at Lincoln Memorial University, has entered the transfer portal and is currently visiting the University of Tennessee as a potential destination for the next chapter of his collegiate career.
Freeman averaged an impressive 18.8 points and 9.2 rebounds per game in his debut season with the Railsplitters, earning All-South Atlantic Conference honors and gaining national attention as a high-impact player with the tools to compete at the highest levels of college basketball. His decision to enter the portal sent a wave of interest across the NCAA landscape, with several Division I programs reportedly reaching out within days.
Tennessee appears to be among the frontrunners for his commitment. Sources close to the situation say Freeman arrived in Knoxville for an official visit this week, where he is meeting with head coach Rick Barnes, touring facilities, and watching team workouts. The Vols, who are coming off a strong season in the SEC and a deep NCAA Tournament run, could be an ideal landing spot for Freeman as he looks to make the jump to Division I competition.
Standing 6-foot-7 with a versatile skill set, Freeman has drawn comparisons to hybrid forwards who can score inside and out, rebound, and defend multiple positions. His strength on the glass, combined with an ability to create his own shot, made him a nightmare matchup in Division II play—and scouts believe his game will translate well to the faster, more physical pace of Division I.
“Elyjah is the real deal,” said one opposing coach from the South Atlantic Conference. “He’s strong, athletic, and plays with a chip on his shoulder. I have no doubt he can contribute immediately at a high-major program.”
For Tennessee, the potential addition of Freeman would be a significant boost as the program looks to retool following the departure of several key contributors. With Freeman’s mix of scoring and rebounding, he could slot into a frontcourt role where the Vols need depth and athleticism.
Freeman’s rise from Division II standout to a sought-after transfer target also highlights the evolving nature of college basketball’s landscape, where the transfer portal and NIL opportunities have blurred the lines between divisions. Players like Freeman are increasingly able to showcase their talent on any stage—and earn bigger platforms when the time is right.
Lincoln Memorial, meanwhile, is losing one of the most productive freshmen in program history. Freeman’s departure will leave a noticeable gap, but the coaching staff has expressed support for his decision, acknowledging that he’s earned the chance to test himself against tougher competition.
No final decision has been announced yet, but all eyes will be on Tennessee as Freeman’s visit wraps up. Whether or not he dons the orange and white next season, one thing is clear: Elyjah Freeman’s basketball journey is just getting started, and the next step could take him to one of the SEC’s
premier programs.
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