Otega Oweh’s NBA Draft Decision: What Kentucky Fans Should Know Ahead of the May 28 Withdrawal Deadline
As the NBA Draft withdrawal deadline of May 28 approaches, Kentucky Wildcats fans find themselves eagerly awaiting the decision of standout guard Otega Oweh. After a transformative season that saw him emerge as one of the SEC’s premier players, Oweh declared for the 2025 NBA Draft while maintaining his college eligibility. This move has set the stage for a dramatic conclusion to his draft journey, with his final decision poised to significantly impact both his professional future and Kentucky’s aspirations for the upcoming season.
Oweh’s journey to this point has been marked by impressive performances and strategic decisions. Transferring from Oklahoma to Kentucky ahead of the 2024–25 season, Oweh quickly became a cornerstone of the Wildcats’ lineup. Averaging 16.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game, he demonstrated a rare blend of athleticism, defensive prowess, and scoring ability. His standout moment came in a thrilling victory over Oklahoma, where he scored the team’s final 18 points, including the game-winning basket with just six seconds remaining. This clutch performance not only highlighted his on-court capabilities but also solidified his status as a leader for the Wildcats.
Despite his success, Oweh’s decision to enter the NBA Draft was not without its complexities. While he showcased significant potential, questions about his shooting consistency and playmaking abilities lingered among scouts. These concerns were evident in mock drafts, where Oweh was often projected as a late second-round pick or even undrafted. For instance, ESPN’s post-combine mock draft did not list him among the 59 picks, and Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman projected him as the 59th overall pick to the Houston Rockets, the final selection of the draft .
In response to these projections, Oweh has expressed a desire for a first-round guarantee before committing to the NBA. This stance underscores his confidence in his abilities and his ambition to secure a position that reflects his potential. To bolster his draft stock, Oweh has been participating in private workouts with NBA teams, aiming to showcase his skills and improve his standing. These workouts are crucial, as they provide teams with a firsthand look at his abilities and offer Oweh an opportunity to address any concerns directly.
Kentucky head coach Mark Pope has been supportive throughout this process, emphasizing Oweh’s importance to the team. Pope has expressed hope that Oweh will return, highlighting the guard’s potential as a preseason SEC Player of the Year candidate. The prospect of Oweh’s return adds an exciting dimension to Kentucky’s lineup, potentially elevating the team’s status as a national title contender .
The decision before Oweh is multifaceted. On one hand, returning to Kentucky offers the opportunity to further develop his skills, particularly his shooting and playmaking, areas that are critical for his NBA aspirations. Additionally, the college environment provides a platform to lead a team with championship aspirations, further enhancing his draft prospects. On the other hand, entering the NBA offers the chance to begin his professional career, albeit with the uncertainties associated with being a late-round pick.
For Kentucky fans, Oweh’s decision carries significant implications. His return would not only strengthen the Wildcats’ roster but also provide a sense of continuity and leadership. Conversely, his departure would open opportunities for other players to step up, potentially reshaping the team’s dynamics.
As the May 28 deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Oweh. His decision will undoubtedly influence the trajectory of his career and the future of Kentucky basketball. Regardless of the outcome, Oweh’s journey serves as a testament to his dedication and ambition, qualities that have endeared him to fans and earned him respect across the basketball community.
