“He’s Coming Back?” National Media Predict Otega Oweh’s Return to Kentucky in 2025-26
The buzz is getting louder across the college basketball world and Big Blue Nation might have reason to celebrate soon.
Otega Oweh, the explosive All-SEC guard from Kentucky, has yet to announce his official decision on whether he’ll remain in the 2025 NBA Draft or return for his senior season in Lexington. But the growing chorus from national media figures suggests a clear direction: they believe he’s coming back to Kentucky.
Jeff Goodman, one of the most respected voices in college basketball analysis, didn’t mince words this week: “I think he is coming back to Lexington.” Goodman, speaking on The Field of 68, pointed to a variety of signs performance at the NBA Combine, draft stock uncertainty, and financial incentives as reasons why Oweh is likely to run it back in blue and white.
He’s not alone in that thinking.
“I think Kentucky is a legitimate top 10 team if Oweh returns,” said Fox Sports Radio’s Aaron Torres. “And I believe he will. He hasn’t done enough to cement himself as a surefire draft pick, and the upside of staying another year is massive.”
247Sports Director of Scouting Adam Finkelstein added his own take: “It sounds like the momentum has him going back to Kentucky. Another year could put him in the first-round conversation.”
At this week’s NBA Draft Combine in Chicago, Oweh put up strong numbers across two scrimmages. He averaged 12 points, 5 rebounds, and a handful of steals across both games while shooting efficiently. While scouts liked what they saw in his effort and athleticism, they’ve been consistent in their feedback: Oweh needs to sharpen his outside shooting and playmaking if he wants to solidify himself as a future NBA starter.
Draft Uncertainty and NIL Power
Though Oweh has dreams of playing in the NBA and said as much during a recent interview even he acknowledged the reality of the decision.
“I believe I’m a first-round guy,” he said, “but I have to go through the process and see where I really stand.”
Unfortunately, where he currently stands is outside most mock drafts. ESPN’s latest rankings list him at No. 72 on their “Best Available” board, well out of second-round contention in this year’s 59-pick draft.
Financially, too, it may make more sense for Oweh to return. According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, a two-way NBA contract is worth around $600,000. A second-round deal could reach $1.2 million. But top-tier players returning to college with strong NIL backing especially at a brand powerhouse like Kentucky could reportedly earn more, sometimes close to or above $1 million in endorsements and appearances.
The Clock Is Ticking
Oweh has until May 28 to withdraw from the draft and retain his eligibility. For now, he continues to participate in team workouts, interviews, and Combine events. But Kentucky fans and Mark Pope are surely holding their breath, knowing just how vital Oweh’s presence would be to next year’s team.
Should he return, he would instantly become the face of the Wildcats’ backcourt, a potential SEC Player of the Year candidate, and the centerpiece of a team with serious Final Four potential.
All signs are pointing toward Lexington. Now, the Big Blue Nation just has to wait.
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