When Mark Pope took over as Kentucky’s head coach, one thing quickly became clear: versatility would be the new cornerstone of the Wildcats’ system. And few players embody that more than sophomore transfer Otega Oweh.
After a strong preseason, Oweh has emerged as one of Kentucky’s most intriguing pieces — not just for his athleticism and defensive intensity, but because of the unconventional role Pope plans to use him in.
During a recent press conference, Pope revealed that Oweh could see time across three different positions, including an experimental spot as a secondary ball-handler. “Otega has a rare blend of size, speed, and toughness,” Pope explained. “He’s got the strength to guard wings, the quickness to stay with guards, and the motor to run the floor like a forward. That gives us the freedom to get creative.”
Oweh, a 6-foot-5 Oklahoma transfer, made his mark last season as a defensive stopper and slasher, averaging 11.4 points and 3.8 rebounds. But under Pope’s system — which emphasizes spacing, pace, and switchable defense — he’s being asked to expand his playmaking responsibilities.
“I’ve been working on my reads, my decision-making,” Oweh said after practice. “Coach wants me to push the ball, attack mismatches, and keep the defense guessing. It’s a challenge, but it’s making me a better player.”
Kentucky’s lineup experiments have turned heads during early practices, with Oweh frequently initiating offense alongside point guard Kerr Kriisa. The goal? To create mismatches and keep opposing defenses uncomfortable.
“He’s kind of our Swiss Army knife,” Pope added. “He’s the type of player who lets us play positionless basketball the way we want to.”
As the Wildcats gear up for their early-season slate, all eyes will be on Oweh — not just for what he brings, but how differently Kentucky plans to use him.
If Pope’s vision clicks, Oweh might not only redefine his own role — he could redefine how Kentucky basketball looks under this new era.
Leave a Reply