Indiana Pacers use final two-way roster spot on intriguing forward

In July, the Indiana Pacers signed Quenton Jackson and Tristen Newton to a pair of two-way contracts. With every NBA team having three two-way contracts to give out, the Pacers had an opening that needed to be filled. Though there were a few candidates for the third two-way contract, the Pacers have officially given it to rookie forward Enrique Freeman.

The Pacers drafted Freeman with the No. 5 pick in this year's draft out of the University of Akron, where he spent five years before joining the NBA. At the University of Akron, Freeman averaged 14 points, 10.6 rebounds, 1.4 blocks, and 1.3 assists per game. Additionally, he shot 62.8% from the field and 35% from the three-point line.

What is compelling about Freeman's collegiate career is that he improved every season. Last season, the Ohio native averaged 18.6 points, 12.9 rebounds (which led the NCAA Division I), 1.7 blocks, and 1.6 assists per game.

Though his college career was solid, Freeman's performance during this year's Summer League is likely what earned him the final two-way contract spot. During the showcase, he averaged 8.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 block per game.

While these numbers are not ground-breaking, Freeman played with great energy on the court. Pacers guard Ben Sheppard spoke about playing alongside Freeman and sang his praises for the rookie forward.

"Definitely. I'd probably say a little bit more. The energy that he brings, you've all seen it in these two games. It's unbelievable. His motor is great. He has a bright future and he's a great kid, everyone loves having him around," said Sheppard.

Enrique Freeman's contract likely means the end of Oscar Tshiebwe's Pacers run

Besides Freeman, arguably the most popular pick for the final two-way contract was Oscar Tshiebwe. The Kentucky alum, who also led the NCAA Division I in rebounding (twice), joined the Pacers as an undrafted free agent last year.

Tshiebwe only appeared in eight NBA games, averaging 3.3 points and 2 rebounds. However, he showcased his talents at a high level in the G League. Tshiebwe averaged 16.2 points, 16 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1 steal per game. The Congo native's impressive performance led to him taking home the 2023-24 G League Rookie of the Year award.

Despite not getting another contract with the Pacers, the future seems bright for Tshiebwe, who could find himself a new home sooner rather than later.