The 2025-26 Kentucky basketball season has been a whirlwind, defying expectations at every turn. Even head coach Mark Pope has acknowledged the unpredictable nature of this campaign. Yet, amidst the chaos, one thing has remained constant: Otega Oweh's brilliance.
Named the Preseason SEC Player of the Year, Oweh faced a slow start due to a preseason foot injury. However, as conference play unfolded, he emerged as a dominant force. Over 14 SEC games, Oweh is averaging an impressive 21.2 points per game, shooting over 50% from the field and 36.4% from beyond the arc.
As the Wildcats face tougher challenges, Oweh continues to elevate his game. He's scored 20 or more points in seven of his last eight outings.
He matched his career-high with 28 points against Georgia and then outdid himself with a 29-point performance at Auburn. Yet, despite his efforts, Kentucky fell short in both contests.
This raises a critical question: where would Kentucky be without Oweh?
In the final 10 minutes at Neville Arena, aside from a Denzel Aberdeen three-pointer, Oweh was the sole Wildcat to score. The team has been a roller coaster, but Oweh's consistency is undeniable. The Wildcats’ season may not be picture-perfect, but it's hard to imagine it without No. 00's contributions.
Oweh's Impressive Achievements
While this season might not be one for the history books, Oweh's contributions are noteworthy. Here’s a look at some of his remarkable feats:
- Oweh has recorded 19 games with at least 20 points against SEC opponents, tying Antonio Reeves for the most by a Wildcat since the 1996-97 season.
- With 26 games scoring 20 points or more, he matches Patrick Patterson for the third-most by a Kentucky player since 1996-97.
- Oweh is the first Kentucky player to score in double figures in 30 consecutive games since Malik Monk in the 2016-17 season.
- He has amassed 1,065 points at Kentucky, joining the ranks of 63 Wildcats in the 1,000-point club. After his latest performance, he surpassed Terrence Jones on the career scoring list and is on track to overtake several notable two-year players like Rex Chapman, Oscar Tshiebwe, and Antonio Reeves.
Kentucky Basketball Confidential Preview
CBS Sports has been following the Kentucky basketball team throughout the season, promising some insightful moments when "Kentucky Basketball Confidential" airs before the Final Four.
In a preview, CBS shared a clip featuring Oweh. His father, Henry, explained the meaning behind his son’s name: “Otega means ‘God’s blessing,’ and also, ‘We give God the praise.’
He fits that name,” he said. “We’re always giving God the glory for that.”
Otega Oweh may not be the loudest presence on the court, but he leads by example-a trait instilled by his family.
Catch "Kentucky Basketball Confidential" on April 4th at 1pm ET on CBS and streaming on Paramount+.