Freitag's Second Chance: A Promising Talent Seeks New Horizons
Initial Collegiate Struggles and the Quest for More Playing Time
Daniel Freitag, a former highly-rated recruit who initially joined the Wisconsin Badgers, faced a challenging start to his university basketball career. During his freshman year in Madison, he participated in only 14 games, none as a starter, and his average playing time was merely two minutes per contest. This limited involvement prompted him to seek opportunities elsewhere to further his development and gain more on-court experience.
A Transformative Season with the Buffalo Bulls
Following his transfer, Freitag moved to Buffalo, where he experienced a dramatic turnaround. In his sophomore season, he became a central figure for the Bulls, starting 22 out of 23 games. His average playing time surged to 33.2 minutes per game, reflecting his increased role and impact on the team. This period marked a significant personal growth, showcasing his potential as a key player.
Remarkable Statistical Improvement and On-Court Impact
Freitag's performance metrics saw a substantial boost during his tenure at Buffalo. He concluded the 2025-26 season with impressive averages of 19.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. This was a stark contrast to his time with the Badgers, where he managed only 1-for-11 in field goal attempts. With the Bulls, he took 299 field goal attempts, demonstrating his increased offensive responsibility.
Shooting Efficiency and Career-Defining Moments
Beyond raw statistics, Freitag also demonstrated improved shooting efficiency. He maintained a field goal percentage of 41.1% and a three-point shooting accuracy of 36.1% for the season. His scoring prowess was highlighted by multiple career-high 33-point games on November 18, December 31, and January 13, 2026. This consistent high-level output transformed him from a player rarely scoring more than two points to one who only dipped into single-digit scoring on three occasions.
Future Prospects and the Search for a New Program
Having showcased his capabilities and growth during his time at Buffalo, the former four-star recruit is now once again exploring options in the transfer portal. His decision comes after the Bulls finished their season with a 17-15 record overall and a 7-11 standing in the MAC conference. Freitag's renewed entry into the transfer market indicates his ambition to find a program where he can continue to excel and contribute significantly, building on the success of his sophomore year.