Sport

Otega Oweh Makes Bold Move: Returning to Kentucky for Senior Year!

2025-05-28

Author: Lok

In a thrilling turn of events, Kentucky’s standout guard Otega Oweh has officially withdrawn from the NBA draft, opting instead to return for his senior season with the Wildcats. This decision comes after insightful feedback from NBA teams, guiding him to enhance his skills and elevate his draft stock even further.

Oweh, a dynamic 6-foot-5 guard hailing from New Jersey, had a phenomenal season after transferring from Oklahoma last spring. He lit up the court with an impressive average of 16.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game, earning him a coveted spot on the second team of All-SEC.

As the season wound down, Oweh surged, showcasing his talent by scoring over 20 points in eight games during February and March, including two clutch game-winners against Oklahoma. This stellar performance was capped off with his selection to the NBA draft combine in Chicago, where he shined in scrimmages, tallying 10 points and three assists in one, followed by 14 points and five rebounds in the next.

With Oweh returning, Kentucky has bolstered its reputation as a pre-season top-10 powerhouse. Despite losing four of its five starters from last year, the Wildcats have strategically reloaded through an impressive mix of transfers and recruits.

Oweh is enthusiastic about the upcoming season, stating, "We have the talent to be the No. 1 team in the country. Everyone is eager to chase national championship No. 9 for Kentucky, and I can't wait to play alongside my teammates!"

Under Coach Mark Pope, the Wildcats have welcomed several key transfers like Jayden Quaintance, Jaland Lowe, and Denzel Aberdeen, alongside promising ESPN 100 recruits such as Jasper Johnson and Malachi Moreno, setting the stage for a thrilling season ahead.

As Oweh steps into a leadership role, eager to steer the team past last year’s Sweet 16 exit, Kentucky fans are filled with hope and excitement as they gear up for the opening of the 2025-26 season with October exhibition matchups against Purdue and Georgetown. Stay tuned for what promises to be an electrifying year in Wildcat basketball!