Came out of the delivery room to this crap news. Happy for Nate - life changing money coming his way. In no way, shape, or form should players ever be shamed for taking the money; always blame the NCAA and the greedy bastards that have let this be a free for all with no guardrails. In addition, continue to hold guys like Freeman on the highest pedestal for their loyalty.
I don't think this is that big of a talent loss. As Captain said, you'll struggle to improve by losing your will-be-senior and reining MAC POTY, but the discussion all season was how average the competition was for that award. Nate isn't that great of a shooter and he had so many boneheaded plays over the years. The biggest hits will come in the experience & fit departments. If we can find a shooter or even another front court player to replace Nate, I don't think we'll see much - if any - drop in success.
Good luck to Nate and thanks for some wonderful memories, especially the euro floater just over a month ago.