Freemantle's Clutch Performance
It was a moment no one will forget. With just seconds left on the clock, Zach Freemantle delivered the dunk that sealed the victory for Xavier Musketeers. Talk about high-stakes drama! This isn’t just any player we’re talking about; Freemantle has been nothing short of a powerhouse for the Musketeers. His return to form this season has fans buzzing, and for good reason. Let’s take a closer look at what makes him such a vital piece of the puzzle.
Freemantle's Last Season Recap
Man, last season was tough for Zach Freemantle and the Xavier Musketeers. Before his injury, Freemantle was averaging an impressive 15.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. But it wasn’t just the numbers that made him stand out—he even managed to notch a triple-double in one game! Shooting an outstanding 63.6% from beyond the arc, his efficiency was unmatched. And let’s not forget his offensive efficiency rating of 110.9, which is stellar, considering he led the team in usage. Unfortunately, injuries have been a recurring theme in Freemantle's career, but his grit and determination have kept him pushing forward.
This Season: Leading the Charge
This season, Freemantle has once again proven why he’s one of the best players in college basketball. Leading the Musketeers with averages of 16.9 points and 7.7 rebounds per game, while shooting 54.4% from the field, he’s been the backbone of the team. Despite missing 55 of Xavier’s 107 games over the last three seasons due to injuries, Freemantle has consistently shown resilience. Each setback has only fueled his drive to return stronger, and that's exactly what he's doing this year.
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Freemantle's Impact on the Team
For the Musketeers, losing Freemantle is like losing a key piece of the engine. His presence on the court is irreplaceable, and it shows in every game. Even when sidelined, his influence is felt throughout the team. When he returned from a lower-body injury earlier this season, it was a huge morale boost for the squad. In one crucial game, Freemantle accounted for 16 of Xavier’s 31 points, proving just how crucial he is to their success. Meanwhile, UC managed to keep up with contributions from Aziz Bandaogo, Day Day Thomas, and Connor Hickman, but Freemantle’s return added a much-needed spark to the Musketeers' game.
Freemantle's Background and Growth
Zachary Freemantle, the power forward from Oradell, NJ, has carved out a remarkable career at Xavier. Though he may not have the longest wingspan, his tenacity and skill more than make up for it. Born and raised in Teaneck, NJ, Freemantle attended Bergen Catholic High School before making his mark in college basketball. Ranked 76th in CBS Sports' list of the top 100 players entering this season, Freemantle has consistently proven his worth on the court. His journey hasn’t been easy—missing the Musketeers' run to the Sweet 16 in 2023 due to a foot injury and sitting out the entire last season—but he’s always come back stronger.
A Player's Perspective
Freemantle’s dedication to Xavier is evident in his decision to stay with the team even after the coaching change from Travis Steele to Sean Miller. He could’ve easily left, but his loyalty to the Musketeers speaks volumes. "He sold everybody on the basketball side of things," Freemantle said, highlighting his commitment to the program. For the first time since 2019, Xavier lost to Cincinnati in the Crosstown Shootout, but Freemantle's return from injury was a bright spot. His leadership and skill will undoubtedly play a pivotal role as the team looks to rebound and make a deep postseason run.
Looking Ahead: Freemantle's Future
As Xavier turns the page to 2025, the Musketeers have reason to be optimistic with Freemantle back in the lineup. Despite setbacks, his ability to adapt and overcome injuries has been nothing short of inspiring. The Musketeers had a spirited effort in their first game without him this season, but it’s clear that Freemantle’s presence is indispensable. With his scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and leadership, Freemantle is poised to lead the Musketeers to greater heights. Fans and teammates alike are eager to see what the future holds for this resilient player and his team.
