BBN Awaits: Will Otega Oweh Return for the 2025-26 Season?
Since the final buzzer sounded on March 28, officially ending Kentucky’s season in the NCAA Tournament, the Big Blue Nation (BBN) has had one question on its mind: Will Otega Oweh return for another season in Lexington?
The suspense has been palpable, with speculation swirling for weeks about the future of Kentucky’s dynamic guard. Now, the clock is ticking. Oweh has until 11:59 p.m. ET on Wednesday, May 28, to withdraw his name from the 2025 NBA Draft and maintain his collegiate eligibility. As that deadline approaches, fans, coaches, and teammates alike are holding their breath, hoping for one more season with the player who has become the heart and soul of the Wildcats’ roster.
A Breakout Star in Blue and White
Oweh, a 6’5” junior guard originally from Newark, New Jersey, made his mark this past season as one of Kentucky’s most explosive and consistent performers. Known for his relentless motor, physical defense, and ability to create scoring opportunities, Oweh elevated his game in the 2024-25 campaign, becoming a leader on and off the court.
He averaged 16.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, while shooting an efficient 48% from the field and 38% from beyond the arc. His defensive tenacity earned him All-SEC Defensive Team honors, and his clutch play down the stretch helped Kentucky secure key wins in conference play.
Oweh’s highlight-reel dunks, fearless drives, and vocal leadership turned him into a fan favorite. But it’s his work ethic and character that have endeared him to Coach Mark Pope and the rest of the Wildcats staff. “He’s everything you want in a player,” Pope said during the SEC Tournament. “Tough, unselfish, driven, and hungry to improve.”
The NBA Temptation
Given his stellar junior season, it’s no surprise that Oweh declared for the NBA Draft in early April, testing the waters to receive feedback from scouts and executives. So far, he’s participated in pre-draft workouts and interviews with several teams, showing flashes of his athleticism, defensive prowess, and developing perimeter game.
NBA evaluators have praised his energy, size, and versatility on the defensive end, but some have raised questions about his offensive ceiling and ability to consistently knock down shots at the next level. Most mock drafts place Oweh in the late second round or as an undrafted free agent with a strong chance to earn a two-way contract.
For Oweh, the decision hinges on whether he wants to bet on his upside now—or return to Kentucky for one more year and solidify himself as a first-round pick in 2026.
Kentucky’s Case for a Return
The argument for returning is compelling. Under new head coach Mark Pope, Kentucky is building a roster that blends talent, toughness, and experience. The Wildcats are expected to bring in a strong recruiting class, alongside a core group of returners who could make them legitimate national title contenders.
If Oweh comes back, he would be the undisputed leader of the team. The offense would run through him. He’d have the chance to showcase a more expanded game—running pick-and-rolls, improving his shot creation, and becoming a more vocal floor general. With another year under his belt and a deeper run in March, his draft stock could soar.
Moreover, Oweh has repeatedly spoken about how much he loves Kentucky. From his relationships with teammates to the support of BBN, Lexington has become a second home. “There’s nothing like playing in front of 20,000 fans who believe in you,” he said after a win over Tennessee. “This place means everything to me.”
The Deadline Looms
As May 28 approaches, the pressure mounts—not just for Oweh, but for the Kentucky program. If he stays in the draft, Pope will likely need to look to the transfer portal or incoming freshmen to fill the void. If he returns, Kentucky immediately becomes a Final Four-caliber team with one of the most experienced and battle-tested leaders in the country.
Fans have taken to social media with pleas and hopeful messages flooding timelines with “#RunItBackOweh” hashtags. It’s clear: the BBN faithful aren’t ready to say goodbye.
Ultimately, the decision lies with Oweh and his inner circle. It’s a deeply personal one, balancing dreams of the NBA with the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in college hoops. Whatever he chooses, he’ll have the full support of a fanbase that’s watched him grow from promising newcomer to potential pro.
A Legacy Still Being Written?
Whether Oweh decides to stay in the draft or return to Lexington, his impact on Kentucky basketball is undeniable. He’s a symbol of hard work, toughness, and belief—a player who embodies the values that the Wildcats cherish.
But if he chooses to run it back for one more season, the story could become even more special. He could etch his name into Kentucky lore, join the ranks of legends, and help bring another banner to Rupp Arena.
For now, all BBN can do is wait—and hope.
Be the first to comment