The Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball team has officially confirmed that standout guard Otega Oweh will return for the 2025–26 season. This announcement solidifies Kentucky’s roster as the team prepares for another competitive campaign under head coach Mark Pope.
Background and Transfer to Kentucky
Oweh, a 6’4″ guard from Newark, New Jersey, began his collegiate career at the University of Oklahoma. During his sophomore season with the Sooners, he averaged 11.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game. Notably, he shot 37.7% from beyond the arc and 49.3% from the field. His performance included a career-high 23 points against North Carolina and a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds against West Virginia.
After entering the transfer portal following the 2023–24 season, Oweh announced his decision to transfer to the University of Kentucky on April 27, 2024. In his debut game for the Wildcats against Wright State, he scored a team-high 21 points, signaling his immediate impact on the team.
Performance at Kentucky
In his first season with Kentucky, Oweh quickly became a key contributor. He began the 2024–25 season with 26 consecutive games scoring in double figures. Notably, on February 26, 2025, Oweh scored Kentucky’s final 18 points, setting a new career-high with 28 points and hitting the game-winning shot with six seconds remaining against his former team, Oklahoma. Four games later, in the second round of the SEC Tournament, he scored 27 points and made another game-winning shot with 0.5 seconds left against Oklahoma.
Throughout the season, Oweh averaged 16.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, shooting 49.4% from the field and 36.5% from three-point range. His scoring ability and defensive prowess were instrumental in Kentucky’s success.
Leadership and Recognition
Beyond his on-court performance, Oweh emerged as a vocal leader for the Wildcats. His ability to rally his teammates, maintain focus under pressure, and guide the team through adversity earned him respect in the locker room. His leadership qualities were crucial in navigating tough stretches of the season.
Oweh’s contributions were recognized nationally when he won the prestigious Oscar Robertson Trophy, awarded by the United States Basketball Writers Association to the best player in college basketball.
Future Outlook
With Oweh’s return, Kentucky is poised to be a formidable contender in the upcoming season. His scoring ability, defensive skills, and leadership will be pivotal as the Wildcats aim for success in the SEC and beyond. The team’s prospects are further bolstered by the addition of guard Denzel Aberdeen from the Florida Gators, rounding out a well-rounded roster .
As the 2025–26 season approaches, all eyes will be on Otega Oweh and the Kentucky Wildcats as they strive to build on their recent successes and pursue further glory in college basketball.
