Once a Wildcat, Always a Wildcat: Oscar Tshiebwe Proudly Reps Kentucky Gear Before Jazz Preseason Game

Once a Wildcat, Always a Wildcat: Oscar Tshiebwe Proudly Reps Kentucky Gear Before Jazz Preseason Game

Some things never change  and for Oscar Tshiebwe, the Kentucky blue still runs deep.

Before the Utah Jazz took the floor for their preseason matchup, cameras caught the former National Player of the Year walking into the arena in a familiar shade of blue. Tshiebwe, now donning the black-and-yellow of the Jazz, proudly wore his Kentucky Wildcats gear during pregame warmups  a moment that instantly sent waves of emotion through Big Blue Nation.

For BBN, it wasn’t just another player sighting. It was a reminder of what made Oscar special  not just his dominance on the court, but his loyalty, humility, and love for the school that gave him a platform to shine.

The Heart of Kentucky Basketball

Oscar Tshiebwe’s name still echoes in Rupp Arena. The former Wildcat big man, who transferred to Kentucky from West Virginia, became one of the most beloved players of the John Calipari era  not just for his stats, but for his spirit.

During his two seasons in Lexington, Tshiebwe averaged a double-double and captured the 2022 Naismith Player of the Year award, becoming the first Kentucky player to win it since Anthony Davis in 2012. His story  from humble beginnings in the Congo to national stardom in college basketball’s most storied program captivated fans everywhere.

And through it all, Tshiebwe carried himself with a humility and gratitude that made him a fan favorite. His postgame interviews often ended with messages of faith and love for Big Blue Nation. So when he was spotted repping Kentucky again, no one was surprised  they were just proud.

“BBN for Life”

The Jazz may be his current home, but for Tshiebwe, Kentucky remains family. His choice to wear UK gear before a game was a subtle but powerful statement: that no matter where basketball takes him, he’ll never forget where he came from.

It’s not unusual for former Wildcats to stay connected  Kentucky’s program has always been more than just a team; it’s a lifelong brotherhood. From NBA stars like Devin Booker to recent pros like Tyrese Maxey and Cason Wallace, the “BBN forever” mentality runs deep.

But with Oscar, the sentiment carries extra weight. He wasn’t just part of the program; he embodied it. His tireless rebounding, his work ethic, his faith  all became symbols of what Kentucky basketball stands for.

From Rupp to the NBA Grind

Since making the jump to the NBA, Tshiebwe’s journey has been one of persistence. After going undrafted in 2023, he signed with the Indiana Pacers and spent time in the G League, where he continued to do what he does best  dominate the glass. His energy and physicality eventually earned him another opportunity, this time with the Utah Jazz.

Now, as he fights for a full-time roster spot, Tshiebwe continues to carry himself with the same humility that made him beloved in Lexington. He’s still the same Oscar  the one who smiles before every tip-off, prays after every win, and thanks his supporters no matter what jersey he’s wearing.

And seeing him step onto the NBA floor still showing love to Kentucky? That’s what makes fans smile.

The Spirit Lives On

When Oscar Tshiebwe walked into the arena wearing that Kentucky gear, it wasn’t just a fashion choice. It was a declaration.

It was a reminder that once you wear Kentucky blue, it stays with you forever  in your heart, your habits, and your hustle.

BBN will always claim Oscar as one of its own. And as he continues his NBA journey with the Jazz, one thing’s certain  no matter where he goes next, he’ll always be a Wildcat at heart.

💙 #BBNForLife 💙