"Quiet Fire With a Competitive Edge"

Sam Freitag

@samfreitag101

6’2, 185lbs, Class of 2027

St Clair HS, MN

Sam plays the game with a smooth confidence and a quiet fire that gives him a presence you feel the moment he steps on the floor. A lights-out shooter who attacks the rim with intent, he combines scoring touch with a long, disruptive defensive frame that instantly complicates matchups for opposing guards. His shot-making stretches the floor, his instincts fuel fast breaks, and his ability to create for teammates gives his team a steady hand in tense moments. Sam’s length, timing, and mobility allow him to smother passing lanes, contest jumpers, and stay attached on drives, making him a true two-way force who competes with purpose every possession.

His numbers from last season tell the story of a player impacting the game everywhere, averaging 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists per game, plus 49 steals, 42 deflections, 7 blocks, and 4 charges drawn. Sam shows up as a stat sheet stuffer. His biggest improvement was in his confidence attacking off the dribble and finishing plays on his own terms. He has become more aggressive rebounding, more fearless diving on the floor, and more determined to chase down anything left in the air. His focus remains on creating more space, sharpening his reading of defenders, and building strength that will expand his offensive arsenal. Earning Offensive Player of the Year and All-Conference honorable mention recognized the work he put in, but also fueled his desire to grow even more.

The game that fires him up most each season is Loyola Catholic. It is competitive, personal, and full of energy because of the crossover between the schools in football. Sam circles it because he thrives in that environment. His coaches know what they are getting, which is consistency, effort, and a player who refuses to disappear. Even on off shooting nights, he contributes through defense, hustle, and leadership. Whether he is hitting shots, forcing turnovers, or sparking momentum with plays that demand toughness, Sam makes an impact that lifts the entire team.

This season, he has his eyes on a deep playoff run. He believes in the players around him and knows the work they have put in together can challenge anyone on the schedule. The crowd fuels him, whether the energy is roaring behind him at home or trying to shake him on the road. Sam welcomes adversity, responding with poise, getting to the free-throw line to reset, and attacking the next possession without hesitation. The advice from his coach, asking whether his attitude lifts the team, stays in his mind, and pushes him to lead with purpose.

Off the court, Sam enjoys his other sports, golf, and time with his girlfriend, but nothing tops being around his family. They are his foundation and the reason he plays with so much gratitude. With no offers yet, he remains patient, humble, and driven. When his chance comes, he will approach it with the same steady hunger that fuels him every time he steps into the gym.

I assess that Sam brings a mix of length, grit, and scoring talent that fits perfectly into a college system built on toughness and versatility. His shooting gives a program a real weapon, but it is his defensive energy that changes momentum. Sam jumps passing lanes, bothers ball handlers with his reach, and wins scrappy plays that turn games. Coaches will value the way he competes, the way he works for extra chances, and how he shows up even when the shots are not falling. His ability to make shots, force mistakes, and stay active in every phase gives a college staff a reliable piece who raises the standard of effort every night.

Sam is nowhere near his ceiling, and the rise he is making becomes more noticeable each season. As he keeps building strength, sharpening his space creation, and expanding his vision as a playmaker, he is going to become an even harder guard to contain. Expect him to grow into a complete two-way threat with a stronger frame, more command off the bounce, and an even bigger defensive impact. His hunger, humility, and competitive fire point toward a future where he keeps rising and forces people to take notice. Programs looking for a dedicated worker with a blossoming game should keep eyes on Sam because his best basketball is still well ahead of him. Stay tuned.