Otega Oweh Reflects on Life-Changing Kentucky Career

Senior forward appreciates two seasons with Wildcats despite NCAA Tournament loss

Mar. 23, 2026 at 4:30pm

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In his final game for Kentucky, senior forward Otega Oweh had 18 points, 8 rebounds and 2 steals in the Wildcats' lopsided NCAA Tournament loss to Iowa State. Oweh, who transferred from Oklahoma, scored in 35 of 36 games this season and led UK in scoring both years, totaling 1,255 points in his two seasons with the team. Despite the disappointing end to the season, Oweh expressed gratitude for his time at Kentucky and confidence that the program will bounce back next year.

Why it matters

Oweh's two-year tenure at Kentucky was marked by consistent high-level production, including a 35-point performance and a dramatic game-winning shot in this year's NCAA Tournament. His departure leaves a significant scoring void for the Wildcats, but his leadership and impact on the program will be remembered by the team and fans.

The details

In his final game, Oweh had 18 points, 8 rebounds and 2 steals as Kentucky fell to Iowa State in the NCAA Tournament. He scored in 35 of 36 games this season, including a 35-point outburst and a game-winning half-court shot in the first round of the tournament. Oweh led Kentucky in scoring both seasons after transferring from Oklahoma, totaling 1,255 points - the most ever by a Wildcat in their first two years with the program.

  • Oweh had 18 points, 8 rebounds and 2 steals in Kentucky's NCAA Tournament loss to Iowa State on March 23, 2026.
  • Oweh scored 35 points and hit a game-winning half-court shot in Kentucky's first-round NCAA Tournament win over Santa Clara on March 17, 2026.

The players

Otega Oweh

A senior forward who transferred to Kentucky from Oklahoma and led the Wildcats in scoring the past two seasons, totaling 1,255 points.

Mark Pope

The head coach of the Kentucky men's basketball team, who praised Oweh's on-court performances and personal growth during his time with the program.

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What they’re saying

“I want to say thank you to BBN for the past two years, it's been amazing. Thank you coach (Mark) Pope for bringing me in. We fell short this year, but I'm sure the guys next year are going to come and remember this and get the job done, because playing here at Kentucky, that's what the fans and everyone deserves is to win.”

— Otega Oweh, Kentucky Senior Forward

“Otega Oweh, not only put incredible performances on the court that BBN will remember forever, but he also grew as a man and grew as a leader in his own way.”

— Mark Pope, Kentucky Head Coach

What’s next

The Kentucky men's basketball team will look to build on the foundation laid by Oweh's two-year tenure, as they aim to bounce back from the disappointing NCAA Tournament loss and compete for a championship next season.

The takeaway

Oweh's time at Kentucky was defined by his consistent scoring prowess, game-winning plays, and personal growth - a legacy that will inspire the Wildcats to honor his impact by returning the program to national prominence in the years to come.