As the midnight deadline looms for college basketball players to declare their NBA Draft intentions, all eyes in Lexington are on Otega Oweh, Kentucky’s breakout guard and rising star. The 6-foot-5 sophomore, known for his explosive athleticism and defensive tenacity, has become the centerpiece of late-spring speculation, with fans, analysts, and NBA scouts eagerly awaiting his final decision.
Oweh, who transferred to Kentucky after a promising freshman season at Oklahoma, made a significant impact under Coach Mark Pope. Averaging 14.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and nearly two steals per game, Oweh’s presence on both ends of the floor was instrumental in Kentucky’s late-season surge. His aggressive play and high motor earned him praise from NBA scouts, many of whom see him as a potential second-round sleeper or a high-upside undrafted signee.
But with hours left until the NCAA’s withdrawal deadline, sources say Oweh and his inner circle remain undecided. The situation behind the scenes is described as “fluid,” with ongoing conversations between Oweh, his family, his agent, and Kentucky’s coaching staff. Some close to the program suggest he’s leaning toward returning for one more season to polish his offensive game and improve his draft stock, while others note the appeal of guaranteed money and professional development in the NBA’s G League system.
One of the major factors influencing Oweh’s decision is the rapidly shifting landscape of college basketball itself. With NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities now offering competitive financial incentives, staying in school no longer means sacrificing monetary gain. Kentucky’s strong NIL infrastructure reportedly has a lucrative package on the table if Oweh decides to return — a factor that could tip the scales in Lexington’s favor.
However, the NBA dream looms large, and for a player with Oweh’s athletic gifts, the allure of testing himself against the world’s best may prove too tempting to pass up.
As the clock ticks toward midnight, Kentucky fans can do nothing but wait, hope, and refresh their feeds.
Regardless of what Oweh decides, one thing is clear: he’s a talent on the rise — and whether it’s under the bright lights of Rupp Arena or in an NBA arena next fall, Otega Oweh’s basketball journey is just beginning.
