College Sports
Steven Pearl Expects Owen Freeman to Play on Restricted Minutes in Auburn Opener
Pearl expects limited availability against Southeastern Louisiana, but Freeman’s playing decision still depends on how his injured foot responds.
Auburn coach Steven Pearl said Tuesday he expected Owen Freeman to be available on restricted minutes for Wednesday’s season opener, while leaving the final playing decision dependent on the center’s condition after practice.
Freeman missed all three of Auburn’s preseason exhibitions with a foot injury and was not yet fully healthy, AL.com reported November 3. Pearl said he planned to speak with Freeman following Tuesday’s practice and would allow him to play if he felt ready to attempt it.
The update is an expectation of limited availability, rather than confirmation that Freeman will make his Auburn debut. The Tigers host Southeastern Louisiana at Neville Arena on Wednesday, November 4, at 8 p.m. EST, with streaming on SEC Network+.
The 6-foot-10 transfer previously played at Iowa and Creighton. He averaged 12.8 points and 6.7 rebounds across his two Iowa seasons and was the Big Ten’s freshman of the year in 2024. Last season at Creighton, he averaged five points and four rebounds in 26 appearances.
