Otega Oweh’s Big Decision
Over the next few weeks, all eyes will be on Otega Oweh, Kentucky’s top scorer, who made a significant impact during his first season under Coach Mark Pope. After spending two years at Oklahoma, Oweh transferred to Kentucky, where he developed his offensive skills, shedding his initial reputation as a defense-first player. With one more season of NCAA eligibility left, Oweh could return to Kentucky, which would be a major offseason win for Pope as he works to build continuity within the roster. However, Oweh’s future isn’t set in stone.
The 6-foot-4 guard is expected to explore the NBA draft process, where strong performances could boost his stock and lead him to turn pro. The draft withdrawal deadline is May 28, and Oweh’s decision could stretch until then. Currently, he is ranked 86th on ESPN’s draft prospects list — below this year’s 59-pick threshold — making a return to Kentucky the most likely scenario.
Brandon Garrison’s Future
Sophomore forward Brandon Garrison also faces key decisions. Previously a McDonald’s All-American, Garrison transferred from Oklahoma State and primarily backed up starting center Amari Williams. Though his time at Kentucky has been inconsistent, Garrison has showcased impressive passing skills and an emerging three-point shot, making him a good fit for Pope’s offense.
Rumors suggest Garrison may test the transfer portal, though the Kentucky staff expects him to return. NBA teams have also shown interest in his skill set, and he may enter the draft process to gather feedback from scouts. Kentucky is preparing to add reinforcements, including McDonald’s All-American big man Malachi Moreno, who can play on the perimeter, and transfer portal players to bolster their frontcourt.
Collin Chandler’s Next Step
Freshman guard Collin Chandler, a former top-40 recruit, returned to basketball after a two-year church mission. He committed to Pope after the coach left BYU, and though Chandler struggled initially, he has shown recent promise, stepping up during Kentucky’s injury-riddled NCAA Tournament run. Transfer rumors have followed Chandler, with speculation about a return to Utah, but his praise for Pope and the program suggests he plans to stay. Chandler, engaged to be married, has expressed feeling at home in Lexington and appears set to return for his sophomore season.
Trent Noah and Travis Perry
Kentucky freshmen Trent Noah and Travis Perry, originally seen as depth players, received significant playing time due to injuries. Noah, who decommitted from South Carolina to join Pope’s squad, and Perry, who stayed on after John Calipari’s departure, have both praised the staff for helping them grow. While future minutes may be limited, both players seem likely to remain with Kentucky next season.
Looking Ahead
For 2025-26, Kentucky has already secured commitments from top recruits Jasper Johnson, Acaden Lewis, and Malachi Moreno, along with Tulane transfer Kam Williams. Retaining Oweh, Garrison, Chandler, Noah, and Perry would give Pope a strong foundation, but the uncertainty of the transfer portal era means nothing is guaranteed. With other programs offering larger roles and better NIL deals, it remains to be seen how many of these key players will return.
The coming weeks will be critical in shaping Kentucky’s roster and future success. Whether Pope can retain his core players or will need to rebuild with fresh talent remains an open question in this unpredictable new era of college basketball.
