Otega Oweh Taking His Time, But Return to Kentucky Appears Likely (Extended Edition)
A Calculated Approach
While many draft hopefuls chase the spotlight, Oweh has taken a calm, calculated approach to his NBA decision. By declaring for the draft without hiring an agent, he maintained his collegiate eligibility. It was a smart move, giving him the flexibility to gather feedback from scouts and executives while keeping the door wide open for a return to college basketball — and specifically, to a Kentucky program that is undergoing a dramatic and exciting transformation under new head coach Mark Pope.
According to those close to Oweh, he values development and opportunity over ego. One source familiar with his thinking noted, “Otega wants to make sure that if he leaves for the NBA, it’s at the right time. He’s not trying to be a guy who just lands on a G League bench. If he goes, it’s because he knows he’s truly ready.”
That maturity has impressed many around the Kentucky program. It’s also what makes a return all the more appealing.
What Oweh Brings to the Table
When he arrived at Kentucky, some questioned whether the 6-foot-5 combo guard could immediately impact the game on both ends. But from the season opener, he erased all doubt.
Oweh’s combination of size, athleticism, and defensive instincts made him an elite perimeter defender. His ability to guard three positions — often taking the opponent’s top scorer — gave Pope’s first Kentucky team a toughness that defined their identity. He routinely shut down SEC guards and even picked up some of the league’s top wings when needed.
Offensively, he showed vast improvement from his Oklahoma days. His 16.2 PPG came in a variety of ways: pull-up jumpers, powerful drives to the basket, backdoor cuts, and transition finishes. His three-point shooting wasn’t elite, but the 35.5% clip from deep showed potential, especially considering his volume was modest.
NBA scouts have praised his frame and motor. They love his physical profile and see shades of NBA-ready defenders like Bruce Brown and Davion Mitchell — players who made their way into the league not necessarily by being stars right away, but by being relentless, tough, and smart.
NBA Uncertainty
Still, the reality is that the 2025 NBA Draft doesn’t appear to be his year.
In ESPN’s most recent two-round mock draft, Oweh was left off the board entirely. That’s not to say he hasn’t made an impression. Several team scouts mentioned Oweh positively after his Combine showing, particularly pointing to his defense, decision-making, and “plus” athleticism. But in a deep draft class featuring more shooting-heavy wings and established scorers, Oweh’s stock may need another season of polish.
As one NBA assistant GM told The Athletic, “There’s a lot to like with Oweh. He’s going to be in the league. It just might not be this year. If he comes back and builds on that momentum — and hits closer to 38% from three — he could jump into first-round talks in 2026.”
Why Kentucky Makes Sense
Returning to Kentucky wouldn’t just be about unfinished business. It might be the most strategic move for Oweh’s long-term career.
Mark Pope has already established a reputation for building player-centric systems. At BYU, he coached teams that shared the ball, emphasized spacing, and let stars grow into defined roles. That same blueprint is now being constructed in Lexington, with Oweh positioned as one of its pillars.
In Pope’s system, Oweh wouldn’t just be asked to score. He’d be trusted as a defensive anchor, a primary ball-handler at times, and a go-to player in crunch time. With incoming talent — including Koby Brea (Dayton transfer), Kerr Kriisa (West Virginia/Arizona), and freshman phenom Will Riley — Oweh would be part of a versatile, experienced, and dangerous backcourt.
Pope himself was candid when discussing Oweh at a recent event.
“There’s not another guy in college basketball like him. His explosiveness, his defensive intensity, and his motor? They’re elite. If he comes back, we’re talking about one of the best two-way guards in the country.”
Leadership Role Looms
There’s another reason Oweh may opt for one more year: leadership.
Last year, Kentucky relied heavily on transfers and underclassmen. With Antonio Reeves gone and a new core emerging, Oweh would become the heart of the locker room — the guy younger players turn to. That kind of role can shape a player, both in terms of maturity and on-court responsibility.
It also looks great in the eyes of scouts. Being the guy on a high-profile team like Kentucky means more TV exposure, more late-game reps, and more chances to show mental toughness. For a player on the NBA fringe, those little things often tip the scale.
Wildcats Reloading for a Deep Tournament Run
Kentucky hasn’t been to the Final Four since 2015. Fans are desperate for a return to college basketball’s biggest stage. With Oweh back in the fold, that dream becomes significantly more realistic.
Here’s what the 2025–26 roster could look like with Oweh:
- G: Kerr Kriisa — veteran point guard, elite passer.
- G: Otega Oweh — dynamic two-way scorer, leader.
- G: Koby Brea — 3-point sharpshooter and high IQ wing.
- F: Brandon Garrison — physical forward, rim protector.
- F: Amari Williams — elite transfer from Drexel, low-post threat.
- Bench: Will Riley, Collin Chandler, Lamont Butler, Oumar Ballo, Andrew Carr.
That’s a dangerous, experienced, and balanced rotation. With Pope’s ability to space the floor and emphasize team defense, Kentucky would have the tools to match up with anyone in the country — from Kansas to Duke to Alabama.
What If He Leaves?
Of course, there’s still the chance Oweh keeps his name in the draft.
If that happens, Pope and his staff would need to shuffle roles. Brea might take on more scoring load. Will Riley could be thrust into early minutes. Lamont Butler’s defensive chops would be critical.
The Wildcats would still be good — maybe even great — but they’d miss the heart Oweh brings. Few players defend with his pride or attack the rim with his intensity. He’s a tone-setter, and Kentucky’s margin for error would shrink without him.
The NIL Factor
Let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: NIL.
Kentucky, like other blue bloods, has ramped up its Name, Image, and Likeness program. Several sources close to the UK athletic department believe Oweh could command a high six-figure NIL deal to stay — possibly even breaking into seven figures if he returns and leads Kentucky deep in March.
From a financial standpoint, the G League or a two-way NBA contract can’t match what Kentucky boosters can offer — not to mention the value of being a national face of one of the sport’s most visible programs.
Final Decision Looming
With the May 28 draft withdrawal deadline approaching, all eyes remain on Oweh. His Combine performance helped his stock, but it didn’t cement a draft spot. Kentucky fans, players, and coaches are watching closely — and hoping.
As Pope said, “Otega represents what Kentucky basketball is supposed to be — tough, unselfish, relentless. He’s everything you want in a leader. If he comes back, we’re going to be special.”
If he does return, expect him to enter the season as a candidate for:
- SEC Player of the Year
- Naismith Award Watchlist
- NBA Draft first-round projection in 2026
A Legacy in the Making
Otega Oweh stands at the crossroads of potential and legacy. He can pursue the dream of the NBA now — likely starting in the G League or overseas — or he can return to Lexington, cement his status as one of the best two-way guards in the country, and chase a Final Four.
Everything points to the latter. And if he does return, Big Blue Nation won’t just be excited — they’ll be all in on a national title run.
One more year of Oweh? That might be exactly what both he and Kentucky need.
