The Kentucky Wildcats will begin their NCAA Tournament journey on Friday evening in Milwaukee, where Mark Pope’s squad will face the Troy Trojans.
In the days leading up to the tournament following the Selection Show, various rankings, lists, and bracket predictions dominate discussions.
One such ranking from Bleacher Report highlighted the top 25 players in the tournament. However, a notable omission from this list was Kentucky’s standout, Otega Oweh.
Oweh, who averaged 16.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.6 steals per game in one of the most competitive conferences in college basketball, is undoubtedly one of the tournament’s premier players. The idea that there are 25 better players in the field is questionable, but Oweh now has the opportunity to prove himself on the biggest stage.
Recently, Oweh has elevated his game, averaging 20.2 points per contest over his last four outings. With Jaxson Robinson sidelined for the remainder of the season, Oweh has taken on a greater scoring role for the Wildcats. A Second Team All-SEC selection, he is one of the most effective downhill drivers in college basketball, making him a nightmare for defenders when he attacks the rim with momentum.
Despite his impressive play, one thing remains evident—Mark Pope’s team prioritizes success over individual recognition. While Oweh may not be fazed by his exclusion from the list, he certainly has every reason to be. As the Wildcats enter the Big Dance, there’s little doubt that Oweh will make his presence felt and shine on the tournament’s grand stage.
