Will Otega Oweh Stay with the Wildcats or Head to the NBA? Kentucky Awaits the Decision That Could Shape 2025

The whispers around Lexington have grown into a loud, anxious buzz, echoing in practice gyms, coffee shops, and message boards alike. The name on everyone’s lips is Otega Oweh. The question? Simple but seismic: Will he stay, or will he go? For the Kentucky Wildcats, the implications are enormous. For Oweh, the decision could shape his life.

The former Oklahoma guard turned Kentucky standout has spent the past season redefining what it means to be a two-way force in college basketball. At 6-foot-5 and 215 pounds, Oweh brings a mix of explosive athleticism, dogged perimeter defense, and a steadily improving offensive repertoire that had NBA scouts checking in early and often. But after declaring for the NBA Draft while maintaining his college eligibility, Oweh now stands at a critical crossroads.

This is not just about one player. It’s about the future of a Kentucky program undergoing major transition. New head coach Mark Pope is assembling his first full roster, trying to mix experience, portal talent, and NBA-caliber youth into a team capable of contending in the SEC and beyond. Oweh, as one of the most battle-tested and gifted players in that mix, is vital. Whether he returns could spell the difference between a team that’s dangerous and one that’s dominant.

But for Oweh, the calculus is far more personal. There’s a lot on the line—and not just money, though that is certainly part of the equation. The modern basketball landscape has changed dramatically with the rise of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, providing college players with financial security that was once exclusive to the professional ranks. For someone like Oweh, who has already proven he can thrive on a big stage, the lure of immediate NBA income is counterbalanced by the potential to earn well in college while refining his game even further.

Those close to the situation say Oweh is genuinely torn. He loves the college atmosphere, values the mentorship and structure it provides, and sees the opportunity for personal and athletic growth under Pope’s system. At Kentucky, Oweh has become more than a scorer or defender—he’s emerged as a leader, a role model, and a fan favorite. He thrives in the spotlight but also values the camaraderie of the locker room and the passion of Big Blue Nation.

Still, the call of the NBA is powerful. Scouts have praised his physical tools and potential as a lockdown defender who can guard multiple positions. Offensively, his slashing ability and improving perimeter shot are attractive assets. He’s not projected as a first-round lock yet—most mock drafts slot him in the early-to-mid second round—but a strong showing in pre-draft workouts could change that narrative quickly. For players on the bubble, those sessions carry significant weight, and Oweh’s athleticism and motor are built for the kind of drills and scrimmages that turn heads.

And then there’s the question of timing. Does Oweh strike now while his stock is climbing and roll the dice on carving out a niche at the next level? Or does he return for another college season to further solidify his résumé, improve his draft position, and possibly lead Kentucky deep into March?

It’s worth remembering that Oweh’s path hasn’t been linear. He began his career at Oklahoma, where flashes of brilliance were sometimes overshadowed by inconsistency and a crowded backcourt. But his transfer to Kentucky marked a turning point. Under the brighter lights and greater expectations, he flourished. His averages improved across the board, and so did his confidence. He showed he could defend top scorers, finish through contact, and hit big shots when it mattered most. Kentucky gave him the platform. He delivered.

In many ways, his story mirrors that of countless talented college players navigating a new era in basketball—where staying in school doesn’t necessarily mean delaying your dream, and going pro isn’t the only way to secure your future. The NCAA’s decision to allow players to test the draft waters while keeping their eligibility has created a valuable decision-making period, but also a tense waiting game for coaches and fans alike.

Mark Pope, to his credit, has embraced that uncertainty. In recent interviews, the new Kentucky head coach has expressed nothing but support for Oweh’s process, noting that the program is built to develop players who dream of the NBA. But Pope also made it clear: If Oweh returns, the Wildcats will have a leader who can anchor the defense, ignite the offense, and model the culture he’s trying to build.

For a team that’s already seen major changes this offseason, that kind of stability could be priceless. Kentucky has brought in key transfers and remains in pursuit of top-tier talent, but Oweh is the kind of versatile guard who ties everything together. He can guard 1-through-3, score without dominating the ball, and inspire teammates with his relentless energy. Losing him would leave a significant hole.

The next few weeks will be critical. Oweh has until the NCAA’s withdrawal deadline to make his decision official. In the meantime, he’ll gather feedback from NBA teams, participate in workouts, and lean on his inner circle for guidance. For Wildcat fans, the wait may feel endless. But for Oweh, it’s a decision that requires clarity, reflection, and courage.

And there’s no easy answer. The NBA represents the dream—but also the unknown. Returning to Kentucky offers familiarity, momentum, and perhaps a shot at being the face of a revitalized program. It’s a choice between now and later, between opportunity and optimization. It’s a decision millions of young athletes aspire to face—and one only Oweh can make.

One thing is clear: Whether he suits up again in Kentucky blue or dons an NBA jersey next season, Otega Oweh’s star is on the rise. He has proven himself to be more than just a highlight reel or a stat sheet stuffer. He’s a player with character, drive, and game—and wherever he lands, that combination is going to carry him far.

But if he returns, Big Blue Nation will have more than just hope for the future—they’ll have a proven leader ready to write a new chapter. One that could end with a title run, a first-round pick, or both.

For now, the million-dollar question remains: Will he stay, or will he go? Oweh has earned the right to take his time. And whatever he decides, the basketball world will be watching.