“Something I wasn’t told about the NBA Draft”: Otega Oweh’s shocking truth and return to Kentucky
Last week, Kentucky guard Otega Oweh stunned fans by withdrawing from the 2025 NBA Draft with mere hours to spare—and now he’s opening up about the hidden reason he pulled his name: not because he wasn’t good, but because he learned something crucial that no one had told him before.
Oweh, who averaged 16.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals last season and earned Second-Team All-SEC honors, made his decision on May 28—precisely at the deadline—and it wasn’t easy . In fact, he called it a “pretty difficult decision” .
While exploring draft possibilities, Oweh received feedback from NBA teams at the combine in Chicago, earning praise for his scoring, intensity, and defense—but his inconsistent three-point shooting raised red flags . Yet that wasn’t the real shocker.
In a candid discussion, Oweh revealed the biggest surprise: he wasn’t prepared for the true grind and expectations at the next level. He reflected that while scouts admired his motor and slashing ability, they bluntly told him he needed another year to mentally and physically prepare for the NBA grind. It was a reality check he hadn’t fully anticipated.
> “The intensity they’re playing with… that’s something I hadn’t really grasped until I was there,” he admitted .
Armed with that revelation, he realized that staying at Kentucky for another year would let him build the strength, stamina, and mental toughness to compete at that level—and pursue what he calls “unfinished business.” Oweh said, “If I have one more year, I can go back, improve that stock… and maybe win a national championship”—a dual mission of personal growth and team glory .
The emotional announcement landed in dramatic fashion: his video declaring “I’m back better now” was filmed weeks earlier—before he cut his hair and before the draft test—serving as a “just‑in‑case” backup if things fell through . That video captured his love for Kentucky and belief in the program, even if it hadn’t yet fully resonated.
When Oweh called Coach Mark Pope from an airplane at the last moment, Pope was blindsided with joy. “Coach, let’s do this. I’m coming back,” he said—and the reaction? Pope joked the pilot nearly threw him off for cheering too loud .
Now, Oweh returns with newfound clarity. He’s focused on refining his jump shot, maintaining elite conditioning, and embracing a veteran leadership role at Kentucky . More than ever, he’s determined to chase Kentucky’s ninth national championship, and if he shines next season, his draft stock will only rise .
In the end, Oweh’s sudden turnaround wasn’t about fear—it was about truth. The NBA dream is still alive, but now he’s wiser. He knows what lies ahead, and he’s chosen a path that allows him to build, evolve, and finish what he started—both for himself and for Kentucky.
