Breaking: Otega Oweh Withdraws from 2025 NBA Draft, Will Return to Lexington to Hone Shooting Skills
In a move that sent ripples through the college basketball world, University of Kentucky standout Otega Oweh has officially announced that he will withdraw his name from consideration for the 2025 NBA Draft and return to Lexington for another season with the Wildcats.
Oweh, a 6-foot-5 guard known for his explosive athleticism and defensive tenacity, had been projected as a late first-round or early second-round pick in most mock drafts. However, after a period of reflection and discussions with his family, coaching staff, and advisors, Oweh made the decision to come back to school to refine his offensive game—specifically his shooting, an area he believes is key to his long-term success at the professional level.
“I’ve had an amazing journey so far, but I know there’s still a lot more work to be done,” Oweh said in a statement released via social media. “After talking with my coaches and my family, I’ve decided to return to Lexington. I love this university, I love my teammates, and I’m committed to working on my shooting and helping us chase a championship next season.”
Throughout the 2024-25 season, Oweh displayed flashes of brilliance, particularly on the defensive end, where his ability to guard multiple positions and generate turnovers made him a valuable asset. However, scouts frequently pointed to his inconsistent perimeter shooting as a concern. Oweh shot just 29% from three-point range last season, a statistic that he knows needs to improve in order to cement himself as a surefire first-round pick in 2026.
Kentucky head coach Mark Pope voiced strong support for Oweh’s decision, praising both his maturity and commitment to growth.
“Otega is the kind of player every coach wants,” Pope said. “He’s tough, coachable, and willing to put the team first. His decision to come back shows just how dedicated he is to maximizing his potential. We’re going to work with him every day to improve his shooting, his ball-handling, and make sure he’s ready to dominate at the next level when his time comes.”
Oweh’s return instantly boosts Kentucky’s prospects for the 2025-26 season. With several other key players expected to stay or join via recruiting, the Wildcats could field one of the most experienced and athletic rosters in the nation. Fans are already buzzing about what a more polished version of Oweh could mean for Kentucky’s chances at a deep NCAA Tournament run.
Beyond the on-court implications, Oweh’s choice reflects a growing trend among college stars who opt to delay their NBA dreams in favor of further development. The introduction of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities has also given players like Oweh the flexibility to continue earning while honing their skills at the collegiate level.
Draft experts largely praised Oweh’s decision as a smart, long-term play. ESPN’s Jonathan Givony tweeted, “Otega Oweh has real NBA tools. If he can tighten his shooting mechanics and show improved offensive versatility, he could easily be a mid-to-late first-round pick next year.”
For now, Oweh is focused on the immediate task ahead: getting better every single day. His summer will be filled with hours in the gym, fine-tuning his shot, improving his reads off the pick-and-roll, and sharpening his overall offensive game.
“I’m not running from the grind,” Oweh concluded in his statement. “I’m embracing it. I’m coming back stronger, better, and more determined than ever.”
Wildcats fans certainly have a lot to be excited about as Oweh’s return signals not just unfinished business in Lexington, but the promise of even greater things to come.
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