Breaking: ‘We Go Home Now!’ – Otega Oweh Announces Return to Kentucky for Senior Season After Last-Minute Withdrawal from 2025 NBA Draft
In a surprising turn of events, Kentucky Wildcats guard Otega Oweh has officially announced his return to Lexington for his senior season, just days before the final deadline to remain in the 2025 NBA Draft. Oweh, who had been projected as a late second-round pick by most draft analysts, made his announcement via social media late Monday evening with a simple, emphatic message: “We go home now!”
The message, accompanied by a video montage of highlights from the past season and a roaring Rupp Arena crowd, sent shockwaves through the Big Blue Nation and the college basketball world. For Kentucky, it’s not just the return of a seasoned veteran—it’s a commitment to unfinished business.
A Developing Star
Oweh, who transferred to Kentucky in 2023 after two years at Oklahoma, had a breakout junior season under head coach Mark Pope. Averaging 14.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, Oweh emerged as one of the SEC’s most versatile two-way players. His athleticism, energy on defense, and improved outside shooting made him a key piece in Kentucky’s deep tournament run this past March.
Though Kentucky fell just short of the Final Four, Oweh’s performances on the biggest stage—particularly his 22-point outing in the Sweet 16—turned heads and sparked speculation about his NBA readiness.
Still, questions lingered about his consistency from beyond the arc (he shot 33.7% from three) and his ability to run an offense as a lead guard. NBA scouts praised his motor and defensive upside but largely viewed him as a developmental project—an athletic combo guard who might benefit from another year at the collegiate level.
The Decision to Withdraw
In the weeks following the NCAA Tournament, Oweh declared for the NBA Draft while maintaining his college eligibility, participating in team workouts and the NBA Combine. Sources close to Oweh say he received mixed feedback: some teams valued his energy and defense, but others expressed concerns over his playmaking and outside shooting.
Ultimately, the decision came down to trust—trust in his continued development under Coach Pope, and trust that another year could vault him into first-round conversation.
“I talked to my family, my coaches, and my teammates,” Oweh said in a statement released Tuesday morning. “I’ve grown so much this past year, and I know I’ve got more to give—to myself, to this program, and to our fans. We’re not done yet.”
What It Means for Kentucky
Oweh’s return is a major coup for a Kentucky program looking to reassert itself as a national powerhouse under Pope’s new regime. With Oweh back in the fold, the Wildcats retain a dynamic leader on both ends of the floor and a player who can set the tone for a younger roster.
In an offseason already filled with promising transfer additions and a highly ranked recruiting class, Oweh’s decision adds experience and stability to the backcourt. His defensive presence and slashing ability will be critical as the Wildcats aim for a deeper tournament push.
“Otega is everything you want in a competitor,” Coach Pope said Tuesday. “His toughness, his drive, and his heart have been the foundation of what we’re building here. I’m thrilled he’s coming back to finish what we started.”
Looking Ahead
With Oweh returning, Kentucky is poised to be a Top 10 team in most preseason polls. He’ll likely step into an even bigger leadership role next season, mentoring incoming freshmen and setting the tone for Kentucky’s signature full-court pressure defense.
Analysts believe Oweh can further improve his draft stock by refining his decision-making, increasing his assist-to-turnover ratio, and continuing to develop his outside shot. A full year as Kentucky’s primary perimeter stopper and secondary ball-handler could elevate him to a potential first-rounder in the 2026 NBA Draft.
“This is about legacy,” said former Kentucky star and NBA veteran Rajon Rondo, who has mentored Oweh during his time in Lexington. “You only get one college career. Otega’s doing it the right way—building, leading, and leaving his mark.”
A Homecoming and a Mission
For Oweh, the phrase “We go home now!” is more than just a catchy tagline—it’s a declaration of loyalty to the Kentucky faithful and a mission statement for his senior season. In an era when many players jump to the pros at the first opportunity, Oweh’s choice to return reflects a deep connection to the program and a hunger for team success.
As the 2025-26 college basketball season looms, one thing is clear: Otega Oweh isn’t just coming back—he’s coming back to lead, to fight, and to win.
The Bluegrass has its warrior back.
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