Mark Pope Has Big Plans for Otega Oweh If He Returns to Kentucky, SEC Stardom Could Be Next
With the 2025 NBA Draft slowly approaching and Kentucky’s roster nearly set for next season, one name still looms large over the Wildcats’ plans: Otega Oweh.
The explosive guard is currently in the middle of the NBA Draft evaluation process, attending workouts and receiving feedback from professional teams. While he’s yet to announce a final decision, many around the program—and especially head coach Mark Pope—are hopeful that a return to Lexington is in the cards.
And Pope didn’t mince words about just how important Oweh’s return could be.
During an appearance on Jon Rothstein’s “College Hoops Today” podcast, Pope offered a glowing update on the status of his rising star—and dropped a tantalizing hint about Oweh’s future should he choose to withdraw from the draft.
“Otega is going through this draft process, and we’re cheering for him every step of the way,” Pope said. “But I know a lot of his heart is back here at Kentucky.”
That line alone lit up Big Blue Nation, but Pope wasn’t done yet.
“If he does return,” Pope continued, “he’ll probably return as the presumptive SEC Player of the Year favorite, and clearly, he’s got a beautiful future ahead of him.”
From Breakout Star to SEC Favorite?
Oweh transferred to Kentucky and quickly became one of the most electric players in the conference. His combination of elite athleticism, two-way ability, and relentless energy made him a nightly problem for opposing teams. Whether slashing to the rim, locking down the opponent’s best player, or making momentum-shifting plays, Oweh was a key difference-maker in Kentucky’s success last season.
And he wasn’t just a highlight machine—he was consistent.
Oweh finished the season averaging double-digit points, strong rebounding numbers for a guard, and often took on the toughest defensive assignments. NBA scouts noticed, which is why he’s currently testing the waters.
But as Pope alluded, there’s unfinished business in Lexington.
Kentucky’s Roster Reload is Nearly Complete
Coach Pope has worked quickly to rebuild and reshape Kentucky’s roster following the departure of former head coach John Calipari. Through a blend of returnees, high-level transfers, and incoming freshmen, Pope is putting together a team that could compete from day one.
But adding Oweh back into the mix? That changes everything.
He wouldn’t just be a returning player—he’d be the face of the team, a leader, and potentially one of the best players in all of college basketball. Preseason All-American honors, national awards buzz, and SEC dominance would all be on the table.
And Pope clearly believes Oweh is ready for that spotlight.
“He’s got a beautiful future ahead of him,” Pope said, “but if that future includes one more year in college, I think he could take over the sport.”
What’s Next?
The NCAA deadline to withdraw from the NBA Draft and retain college eligibility is May 28. Until then, Oweh will continue receiving feedback and weighing his options. But make no mistake—his return would be the final piece in what could be a truly special team in Lexington.
Mark Pope has already shown he can navigate the transfer portal and bring excitement back to Rupp Arena.
Now, he’s waiting—just like the rest of the Big Blue Nation—to see if Oweh’s heart brings him home.
If it does, Kentucky’s championship hopes will get a massive boost.
And Otega Oweh could become a college basketball superstar.
