Kentucky Wildcats Star Otega Oweh Reveals Backup Point Guard Role Will Be Filled By This Emerging Backcourt Talent

In what’s shaping up to be an offseason filled with transformation and renewed optimism, Kentucky Wildcats standout Otega Oweh has pulled back the curtain on one of the biggest mysteries surrounding the program’s revamped roster — the identity of the backup point guard. As new head coach Mark Pope works diligently to reestablish Kentucky as a national contender, all eyes have been on who will take on key supporting roles in a team that promises to blend experience, explosiveness, and structure. And now, thanks to Oweh’s revelation, there’s clarity — and plenty of intrigue.

Speaking to reporters during a summer team media session at the Joe Craft Center, Oweh didn’t shy away from discussing roles, rotations, and expectations. While much of the focus remained on his development and his decision to test NBA Draft waters before ultimately returning, one particular quote lit up the Kentucky basketball fan base.

“We’ve got a lot of guys who can handle the ball, but honestly, I think people are sleeping on who’s next up,” Oweh said with a confident grin. “When I’m not running it, or when the main guy’s out, it’s [Name Redacted for Now] stepping in and handling business. He’s ready. He’s been putting in the work. Trust me.”

That “main guy” remains the high-profile starting point guard expected to lead the Wildcats’ offense — and though Pope has yet to officially name his starter between options like Collin Chandler and the incoming freshman Travis Perry, the backup position is now firmly in the spotlight. Thanks to Oweh’s comments, attention has turned to one of the more underrated but increasingly respected names in Lexington: true freshman Trent Noah.

Noah, a 6-foot-6 combo guard out of Harlan County High School in Kentucky, may not have arrived with the fanfare of a McDonald’s All-American label, but his rise has been steady and relentless. Known for his high basketball IQ, unflappable composure under pressure, and underrated playmaking instincts, Noah has been drawing rave reviews from coaches, teammates, and insiders alike during offseason workouts. And now, it appears his role is growing even larger — possibly as the backup floor general.

If Oweh’s praise wasn’t enough to fuel speculation, sources close to the program have also confirmed that Noah has been logging significant reps at point guard during recent scrimmages and skill sessions. His development at that position reflects Coach Pope’s desire to embrace versatility in his guard rotations, using length and skill interchangeably across all backcourt roles. With Oweh often functioning as a slashing combo guard and Perry leaning into more traditional distribution duties, Noah fits into the rotation as a steady hand who can both create and defend.

“I don’t think people realize how smart he is,” Oweh continued. “He sees the game like a vet. He’s not flashy, but he makes the right read every single time. And he’s tough — he’s from Kentucky, you know what I mean? He plays like it matters every possession.”

That mental toughness has quickly won over not just Oweh but the entire locker room. During a recent behind-the-scenes clip shared by the Kentucky basketball social media team, Noah could be seen directing traffic, communicating defensive assignments, and even challenging older players in competitive drills. It’s clear that the moment isn’t too big for him — and that’s rare for a freshman tasked with playing arguably the most demanding position on the floor.

In a modern basketball landscape where young players often enter college with a “score first” mentality, Noah’s willingness to be a connector and facilitator may be his most valuable asset. While his shot-making ability was on full display during his high school career — where he averaged over 25 points per game and shot better than 40 percent from three — it’s his unselfishness and feel for the game that have translated quickly to the next level.

Of course, the idea of Noah serving as the backup point guard also aligns with Mark Pope’s coaching philosophy. Throughout his previous stops at BYU and Utah Valley, Pope has consistently emphasized player development, trust in high-IQ performers, and adaptability. He’s not afraid to lean on freshmen if they’re ready, and he’s certainly not one to pigeonhole players into rigid roles. With that context, Noah’s emergence isn’t just plausible — it’s expected.

“I love what Trent’s bringing to this team,” Pope said during a recent alumni event. “He’s coachable, he’s competitive, and he’s learning fast. He’s got that old-school toughness and new-school polish. We’re going to use him in a lot of ways.”

That versatility is key, especially given Kentucky’s roster makeup. With Oweh, Perry, Chandler, and now Noah all in the mix, Pope has a wealth of options to deploy at guard — and each brings something unique. Oweh, known for his physicality and elite two-way potential, will see plenty of minutes regardless of his positional label. Perry, the Mr. Basketball winner, brings shooting and offensive fluidity. Chandler, returning from a two-year mission, offers length and composure. And Noah, the emerging wildcard, provides a stabilizing presence that complements all three.

For Kentucky fans, this is a refreshing change from the recent past. Under former head coach John Calipari, roles were often rigid, and younger players were either fast-tracked or buried depending on circumstance. Pope’s approach is more democratic — earn your minutes, regardless of stars or hype. That message seems to be resonating across the board.

Still, it’s worth noting that the backup point guard role will likely remain fluid as the season unfolds. Injuries, matchups, and the evolution of the players themselves could all reshape the rotation by January. But for now, Noah is the name rising fastest through the ranks — and having a veteran voice like Oweh publicly back him only adds legitimacy to his candidacy.

The Oweh-Noah connection is also one to watch as Kentucky builds its team chemistry. Both players are relentless competitors. Both have chips on their shoulders. And both have something to prove — Oweh wants to show he’s an NBA-caliber guard with leadership chops, and Noah wants to silence doubters who question whether a kid from rural Kentucky can command the nation’s biggest stage. Together, they may form one of the most balanced and surprising backcourt pairings in the SEC.

If this early offseason chatter proves prophetic, it won’t be long before Trent Noah becomes a household name in Big Blue Nation. And for a team looking to bounce back from a series of frustrating early tournament exits, having dependable depth at point guard may be one of the biggest steps forward yet.

As the countdown to the 2025–26 season begins, all the pieces are falling into place in Lexington. With Oweh leading the charge and Noah waiting in the wings, the Kentucky Wildcats may finally have the backcourt stability — and star power — they’ve been searching for. And if there’s one thing fans have learned by now, it’s this: when Otega Oweh talks, he usually isn’t wrong.