Kentucky junior guard Otega Oweh, the Wildcats’ top scorer during the 2024–25 season, has declared for the 2025 NBA Draft while keeping his NCAA eligibility intact. Oweh made the announcement on Tuesday via social media, allowing him to explore the professional route without ruling out a return to college.
Breakout Season in Lexington
After transferring from Oklahoma, Oweh quickly became a key figure in Mark Pope’s debut season as Kentucky’s head coach. He averaged 16.2 points per game on 49.2% shooting and scored in double figures in 33 of 36 contests. He had 13 games with 20 or more points, highlighted by a career-high 28-point performance, including a game-winner, against his former team. In the SEC Tournament, Oweh delivered again with 27 points and a buzzer-beater to eliminate Oklahoma.
He also made history in Kentucky’s NCAA Tournament win over Troy, becoming the first Wildcat since 1996 to post 20+ points, 8+ rebounds, and 5+ assists in a tourney game.
NBA Draft Outlook and Uncertainty
Despite his strong college showing, Oweh’s NBA prospects are less certain. At 6-foot-4, he’s slightly undersized for a prototypical shooting guard, and he shot 35% from three, averaging under one make per game. ESPN’s latest mock draft does not project him among the top 59 picks, and draft expert Jonathan Givony ranks him No. 86 overall.
However, by declaring, Oweh gains access to the NBA Draft Combine and team workouts, giving him a chance to boost his stock. He has until May 28 to withdraw from the draft if he chooses to return to school.
Kentucky’s Changing Roster
Kentucky’s offseason continues to take shape. Backup center Brandon Garrison has announced he’ll return, and the team has landed a highly rated transfer class, including Mouhamed Dioubate, Jaland Lowe, Jayden Quaintance, and Kam Williams. They’re also bringing in four-star high school recruits Jasper Johnson and Malachi Moreno.
Whether Oweh comes back or stays in the draft, he’s already made a major impact on the program during a pivotal year of transition.
