In an emotional moment that resonated throughout the Kentucky Wildcats basketball program, head coach Mark Pope opened up about the heartfelt announcement made by rising star Otega Oweh — one that left him visibly moved and in tears.
Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, Pope recounted the powerful moment when Oweh, a key figure in Kentucky’s recent successes, sat him down to share his decision to declare for the 2025 NBA Draft. According to Pope, it wasn’t just the announcement itself that struck a chord, but the way Oweh expressed his gratitude and deep connection to the program.
“Otega didn’t just tell me he was declaring for the draft — he thanked me, the staff, his teammates, and the entire Big Blue Nation for believing in him,” Pope said, his voice cracking. “It was one of those rare moments in coaching where you realize it’s not just about basketball — it’s about the lives we touch and the legacy these kids carry forward.”
Oweh, known for his explosive athleticism and leadership on the court, played a pivotal role in Kentucky’s resurgence under Pope’s leadership. His decision to turn pro comes after a standout season where he averaged 17.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game.
“Coach Pope changed my life,” Oweh said in a statement. “He gave me the confidence to be more than just a player — he helped me grow as a man. I’ll always carry Kentucky with me.”
While the announcement marks the end of Oweh’s collegiate journey, it also underscores the emotional bonds within the Wildcats’ locker room — bonds that Pope hopes will continue to define the program.
“Seeing a player like Otega succeed is why we do this,” Pope said. “He made us proud every single day, and we’ll be cheering for him every step of the way.”
Oweh is currently projected as a late first-round pick in most mock drafts and is expected to begin pre-draft workouts with several NBA teams later this month.
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