Rest in Peace, Derrick Freeman

IUP's smooth-shooting small forward was one of the best in school history

Some of the best in IUP basketball history gathered on the court at the KCAC on Feb. 8, 2020, on Alumni Day.

Derrick Freeman, leaning on Bert Misenko (42), left us last night. His former teammates report he was injured in a fall.

Derrick was one of the best I saw in more than 30 years covering IUP basketball. His signature turnaround jumper was artistic and pure. And that 1994-95 team came within one possession of playing in the national championship game under coach Kurt Kanaskie. They set the standard that has translated into continued success over the years. They were bridge builders.

That’s part of Derrick’s legacy. He was an IUP great, scoring more than 1,500 points in only three seasons, and he had a nice professional career overseas. He was inducted into the IUP Athletic Hall of Fame in 2023. He would have turned 56 on March 8.

When Derrick played, IUP was the Indians. They’re the Crimson Hawks now. Either way, Hawk Family lives on.

Derrick, your IUP brethren could use a little help. They just need to make a few more shots, so if you’re looking down tonight, shower them with a little of the grace we saw you display in the short time we got to watch you play.

Thanks for the memories — all of you in the photo — and Godspeed, Derrick.