Otega Oweh and Jaland Lowe Navigating NBA Draft Waters

Otega Oweh and Jaland Lowe Navigating NBA Draft Waters: Will They Return to Kentucky?

As at the time of this article, Kentucky Wildcats guards Otega Oweh and Jaland Lowe are actively participating in the NBA Draft evaluation process. Both players have declared for the draft while retaining their college eligibility, allowing them the option to return to Kentucky for the 2025–26 season if they withdraw by the NCAA’s May 29 deadline.

Otega Oweh: Seeking a First-Round Guarantee

Oweh, a 6-foot-5 junior guard, led the Wildcats in scoring during the 2024–25 season, averaging 16.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game. His athleticism and defensive prowess have garnered attention from NBA scouts. Currently, ESPN’s Jonathan Givony ranks him at No. 77 on the top 100 prospects list, which places him outside the 59 picks of the 2025 NBA Draft.

Oweh has participated in pre-draft workouts, including one with the Portland Trail Blazers, and has expressed a desire for a first-round guarantee before committing to the NBA. Without such assurance, a return to Kentucky remains a strong possibility.

Jaland Lowe: Impressing at the G League Elite Camp

Lowe, a 6-foot-2 sophomore transfer from Pittsburgh, showcased his skills at the NBA G League Elite Camp, recording 9 points, 5 assists, and a +15 plus/minus in his first scrimmage. Despite this performance, Lowe is not currently listed in major mock drafts or top prospect rankings. Given this, returning to Kentucky for the upcoming season could provide him with an opportunity to enhance his draft stock.

Kentucky’s Outlook

Should both Oweh and Lowe return, Kentucky’s roster for the 2025–26 season would be bolstered by their experience and talent. Head coach Mark Pope has already assembled a strong team through the transfer portal, and retaining these guards could position the Wildcats as national championship contenders.

The decision deadline is approaching, and the choices made by Oweh and Lowe will significantly impact both their careers and Kentucky’s prospects in the upcoming season.