Tuesday night was another rough outing for Kentucky men’s basketball. The Wildcats fell 67-64 to North Carolina in a game that will be remembered more for missed opportunities than stellar play — including a gut-wrenching 11-minute stretch in the second half without a field goal. The loss added to an early-season string of tough games against ranked opponents, leaving fans frustrated and searching for positives.
Thankfully, there was at least one bright spot: Otega Oweh.
The 6-foot-4 senior guard tied his season-high with 16 points while adding four rebounds, two assists, two steals, and two blocks in 33 minutes on the court. What made the performance particularly encouraging was Oweh’s shot selection. Instead of relying on the three-pointer, which had haunted him earlier this season, he attacked the paint, drew fouls, and made smart, high-percentage plays. He went 6-11 from the field and made four of six free throws — a season-high in attempts — showing the kind of efficiency Kentucky desperately needs.
Oweh’s impact wasn’t limited to scoring. Defensively, he was more engaged and effective than in previous games, carrying over the effort he displayed against Loyola (MD) and Tennessee Tech. Head coach Mark Pope took notice.
“I thought Otega’s effort was terrific tonight,” Pope said. “Minus some fatigue plays, I thought he was really solid and there were some positive signs for sure.”
Other Wildcats contributed in their own ways. Andrija Jelavić held his ground defensively against future NBA lottery pick Caleb Wilson, and Malachi Moreno continued to impress as the starting center. But Oweh’s consistent energy, leadership, and efficiency on both ends of the floor stood out most, offering fans a glimpse of hope amid an otherwise disappointing evening.
If Kentucky wants to turn its season around, performances like Oweh’s can’t be the exception — they need to become the rule. With Gonzaga just 48 hours away in Nashville, the Wildcats will need him — and the rest of the team — to carry that momentum forward.
Even in a loss, Oweh reminded everyone why fans still have something to cheer about.
