Kentucky Wildcats star guard Otega Oweh has withdrawn from the 2025 NBA Draft and will return to Lexington for his senior season. This move has caused excitement among Kentucky fans and shifted the balance of power in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
With a talented roster surrounding him and a system tailored to his strengths, Oweh’s return positions him as a prime contender for a major individual honor, while also boosting Kentucky’s championship aspirations.
Oweh’s Return Bolsters Kentucky’s SEC Title Hopes
Oweh, a 6’5” guard from New Jersey, transferred to Kentucky from Oklahoma before the 2024-25 season and quickly emerged as a standout in the SEC. Last season, he led the Wildcats with 16.2 points per game, adding 4.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.6 steals per game.
His efforts earned him second-team All-SEC recognition and fueled Kentucky’s deep run in the NCAA Tournament. Beyond the numbers, Oweh showcased his clutch ability with two game-winning shots against Oklahoma, including a dagger in the SEC Tournament that advanced the Wildcats.
This offseason, college basketball analyst Aron Torres spotlighted Oweh’s potential on his podcast. “When we start talking about preseason SEC Player of the Year, I think Otega Oweh always has to be in the short discussion, right?” Torres said, pointing to the significant talent drain across the conference.
Pope expressed optimism about Oweh’s future, in a recent interview on “The Sideline with Andy Katz,” Pope highlighted Oweh’s draft potential, stating, “He’s knocking on the door of this draft, so we’re cheering for him. If he decides to return he’d probably be the presumptive SEC Player of the Year”. This endorsement underscores the high regard Oweh is held in at the conference.
Mark Pope on Otega Oweh:
“He’s knocking on the door of this draft, so we’re cheering for him. If he decides to return he’d probably be the presumptive SEC Player of the Year” pic.twitter.com/GfNj1zD7gv
— Casey (@BleedBlueCasey) May 18, 2025
With Auburn’s Johni Broome, the reigning SEC Player of the Year, Alabama’s Mark Sears, and Tennessee’s Zakai Zeigler among those departing, the door is open for returning stars to shine.
Oweh’s Journey: From Oklahoma to SEC Stardom
Before arriving at Kentucky, Oweh spent two seasons at Oklahoma under coach Porter Moser. There, he was a reliable contributor, but his transfer to Kentucky unlocked a new production level. Oweh’s athleticism and scoring prowess flourished in Mark Pope’s up-tempo system.
His 26-game streak of double-digit scoring last season led the SEC and underscored his consistency. Torres noted this transformation, saying, “I think it’s more about being in a system that fits him and what he does well, and I cannot wait to see what it actually looks like, bigger picture.”
Oweh’s growth mirrors that of Milos Uzan, another Oklahoma transfer who thrived after leaving Moser’s program. Uzan became a key piece in Houston’s Final Four run last season, and he has recently withdrawn for the 2025 NBA draft, returning to the Cougars. This suggests that Kentucky’s system under Pope may be uniquely suited to elevate players like Oweh.
Oweh’s Decision Shapes His NBA and NIL Future
Returning to college offers Oweh a chance to refine his game and boost his NBA Draft stock. At the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, he averaged 11 points, four rebounds, two assists, and two steals in scrimmages, earning positive feedback from scouts. Another strong season, particularly with improvements in shooting and playmaking, could vault him into the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft.
KEEP READING: Former NBA Star Cory Alexander Urges Otega Oweh To Delay NBA for Smarter Kentucky Return
Additionally, staying in Kentucky opens lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. As a high-profile player on a championship contender, Oweh is well-positioned to secure endorsement deals, enhancing the financial upside of his decision.
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