Evaluating Fitzmorris: A Story of Effort and Evolution

Few players embody the journey of growth and adaptation like Keenan Fitzmorris did during his time at Northwestern. Despite entering the program with an established reputation, his transition to the Big Ten was anything but straightforward. Yet, through grit and determination, Fitzmorris carved out a role that resonated deeply with fans and teammates alike.

Adapting to the Big Ten Arena

When Fitzmorris first donned the purple and white, expectations were tempered by the reality of playing in one of college basketball's most competitive conferences. His initial appearances were sporadic, limited primarily to games against less formidable opponents such as Lehigh and Pepperdine. These early outings provided glimpses of potential but also highlighted areas for improvement.

However, as injuries reshuffled the roster, Fitzmorris found himself thrust into more substantial roles. His defensive capabilities began to shine, particularly as the regular season progressed. By February and March, Fitzmorris demonstrated enhanced lateral movement and positioning, crucial skills for containing opposing big men. Although not always overpowering physically, his effort on the court consistently impressed coaches and spectators.

Rebounding and Free-Throw Precision

One of Fitzmorris' standout moments came against Nebraska, where he showcased his rebounding prowess with six boards in a single game. While this feat may not have been replicated frequently, it underscored his commitment to securing possessions. Even when outmuscled by quicker opponents, Fitzmorris never shied away from physicality, aligning perfectly with Coach Chris Collins' emphasis on tenacity.

In another surprising twist, Fitzmorris proved surprisingly adept at the free-throw line, converting nine out of ten attempts during the 2024-25 campaign. For a player traditionally associated with interior dominance, this accuracy represented a rare and valuable skill set. Though based on limited opportunities, these numbers hinted at untapped potential within Fitzmorris' offensive repertoire.

The Statistical Shortcomings

Despite flashes of brilliance, Fitzmorris' overall statistics left some observers wanting more. Over the course of 20 games, he averaged just 2.1 points per contest while accumulating only 23 rebounds. Comparisons to his previous season at Stony Brook, where he averaged double-digit scoring and near-five rebounds per game, inevitably surfaced. The heightened competition in the Big Ten undoubtedly played a part, yet the need for reliable center depth remained unfulfilled.

Perhaps even more concerning was Fitzmorris' declining block totals. Of his 15 total blocks, nine occurred in the first seven games, signaling a gradual decline in shot-blocking effectiveness. As a rim protector, this trend limited his ability to influence the game decisively, especially in critical matchups late in the season.

Minutes Dwindling When They Mattered Most

March is traditionally a month of high stakes in college basketball, yet Fitzmorris saw his minutes dwindle significantly during this crucial period. Against UCLA, Maryland, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, his playing time dwindled to mere scraps. This reduction coincided with Luke Hunger regaining prominence in the rotation, leaving Fitzmorris marginalized precisely when his experience could have been most beneficial.

While understandable given performance metrics, the timing of this decision frustrated many supporters who had grown fond of Fitzmorris' hustle and enthusiasm. His absence from key stretches diminished what might have been meaningful contributions toward postseason success.

A Legacy Beyond Numbers

Beyond the raw data lies a richer narrative of Fitzmorris' tenure at Northwestern. Fans cherished his spirited play and unwavering dedication, often greeting his substitutions with thunderous applause. Memorable plays, including a thunderous dunk against Iowa, cemented his place in Wildcats lore. Fitzmorris' presence extended beyond the scoreboard, infusing energy into every practice and game he participated in.

His journey exemplifies the resilience required of graduate transfers navigating new environments. Fitzmorris embraced challenges head-on, leaving an indelible mark on his teammates and the broader Northwestern community. While his statistical output may not have reached lofty heights, his intangible qualities ensured he would be remembered fondly.