Breaking News: Kentucky Wildcats Release Statement on Otega Oweh Ahead of 2025 NBA Draft Deadline, Hinting at Imminent Return
With the 2025 NBA Draft early entry withdrawal deadline looming, the Kentucky Wildcats have issued an official statement regarding standout guard Otega Oweh—offering strong hints that the sophomore sensation may be returning to Lexington for another season.
In a release issued Monday morning, the University of Kentucky Athletics Department praised Oweh’s development, leadership, and potential at the professional level but concluded with language that suggests fans might see him in the blue and white once again for the 2025–26 college basketball season.
“Otega has gone through this process the right way—gathering valuable feedback from NBA teams while staying focused on his continued growth. He remains committed to excellence, both on and off the court, and our staff supports him fully in whatever path he chooses,” the statement read. “While no final decision has been made public, we’re encouraged by our ongoing conversations and look forward to what’s ahead with Otega.”
The ambiguous but optimistic tone of the statement has sparked a frenzy of speculation among Wildcats fans and college basketball analysts alike. While Oweh has yet to officially withdraw from the NBA Draft, sources close to the program indicate that a return is “highly likely.”
A Breakout Year
Oweh, a 6-foot-5 guard from Newark, New Jersey, transferred to Kentucky from Oklahoma following his freshman season. After a year of adjustment, he emerged as one of the Wildcats’ most reliable two-way players in the 2024–25 campaign. Known for his relentless energy, explosive athleticism, and improved outside shot, Oweh averaged 14.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game while shooting 47% from the field and 36% from three-point range.
But it wasn’t just the numbers that impressed scouts and coaches—it was his intangibles.
“Otega plays with an edge. He defends, he rebounds, he attacks the rim,” head coach Mark Pope said in March. “He’s the kind of player you want in big moments because he brings toughness and composure.”
His efforts earned him All-SEC Second Team honors and put him on NBA radars as a potential late first-round or early second-round selection. However, Oweh opted to test the draft waters without hiring an agent, preserving his NCAA eligibility.
NBA Feedback and the NIL Factor
Sources familiar with Oweh’s pre-draft workouts suggest that while teams are intrigued by his defensive upside and athletic profile, questions remain about his consistency as a shot-creator and ball-handler. Those uncertainties may have contributed to a draft projection that sits just outside the first round—making a return to Kentucky a prudent move.
“Otega has the tools, no doubt,” said one NBA scout who watched Oweh during the G League Elite Camp. “But he might benefit from another year to refine his decision-making and expand his offensive repertoire. He’s got a chance to be a top-20 pick next year if he makes that leap.”
The calculus for college stars like Oweh has changed significantly in the NIL era. Kentucky, a national leader in Name, Image, and Likeness opportunities, has helped returning players secure six-figure deals while preparing them for the NBA. A source close to the Wildcats program confirmed that Oweh would be a “top priority” for NIL backing should he choose to return.
What His Return Would Mean
If Oweh does in fact return, it would be a major coup for Coach Mark Pope, who is heading into his second season at the helm after replacing John Calipari last spring. Kentucky is already assembling a roster built for a deep tournament run, and Oweh’s leadership, defense, and experience would be invaluable.
“Otega’s return would give Kentucky a huge boost,” said ESPN analyst Seth Greenberg. “He’s the kind of veteran player who elevates a young, talented group. He can guard multiple positions, finish in transition, and he’s improved every year. That’s the kind of glue guy you need if you want to cut down the nets in April.”
Oweh’s presence would also stabilize Kentucky’s backcourt, which is expected to feature a mix of returning talent, incoming freshmen, and transfers. His familiarity with SEC play and growth under Pope’s system would make him a cornerstone of the 2025–26 squad.
The Final Countdown
With the NBA’s early entry withdrawal deadline set for May 29, the clock is ticking. While Oweh has remained relatively quiet on social media, his teammates and coaches have dropped subtle hints that a decision is imminent—and possibly leaning toward a return.
On Sunday night, teammate Rob Dillingham posted a cryptic Instagram story featuring a picture of Oweh in Kentucky gear with the caption: “Run it back?” Meanwhile, Pope was seen meeting with Oweh and his family over the weekend.
Whether Oweh announces his decision via social media, a press conference, or a formal release, all signs now point to Lexington as his likely destination for one more year.
For the Kentucky Wildcats, that would be more than just good news—it could be the spark that sets the stage for a championship run.
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