Lexington, KY — In a surprising twist to the upcoming NBA Draft landscape, Kentucky Wildcats fans are holding their breath after recent reports surfaced that two of their standout players, Amari Williams and Otega Oweh, may choose to return to Lexington for another season rather than enter the 2025 NBA Draft or pursue opportunities in the NBA G-League.
According to CBS Sports, Amari Williams is currently ranked 48th on their NBA Draft Big Board and is being widely projected as a potential second-round pick. Meanwhile, Otega Oweh, who has also garnered significant attention this season, finds himself ranked a bit further down the list. The current buzz surrounding these two stars has ignited conversations about the possibility of them returning for another year in college basketball, a decision that would significantly impact Kentucky’s prospects in 2025.
Amari Williams: A Rising Star with High Potential
Amari Williams, who has been a standout for the Wildcats this season, has shown an impressive blend of size, athleticism, and skill on the court. The 6’9″ forward has been a key contributor for Kentucky, averaging double digits in both points and rebounds while showcasing an ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and contribute as a versatile defender.
Williams’ strong play throughout the season has made him one of the most intriguing second-round prospects in the 2025 NBA Draft. Scouts have praised his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor, making him a valuable commodity at the next level. However, the decision to leave college for the NBA isn’t always a clear-cut one. With a potential second-round pick projected, Williams may feel that another year of development in Lexington could help solidify his status as a first-round pick in future drafts.
“Amari has the tools to be a long-term NBA player, but I think he understands that honing his game for one more season at Kentucky could be a better route than rushing into the draft,” said one NBA scout. “He’s shown steady growth, and there’s no doubt that if he stays, he could elevate his stock even further.”
For Wildcats fans, this could mean one more season of watching Williams continue to develop and potentially make a deeper run in the NCAA Tournament, as the team remains a serious contender with a lineup bolstered by his return.
Otega Oweh: A Possible Return to Kentucky?
While Amari Williams’ future is a bit more certain with his second-round projections, Otega Oweh’s draft stock has been a bit more unpredictable. Ranked a bit lower than Williams, Oweh’s decision to declare for the NBA Draft has been a subject of much debate. Oweh has shown flashes of brilliance, but his performance this season has been a mixed bag, with some inconsistency in his play.
At 6’6″, Oweh is known for his scoring ability and athleticism, but some NBA scouts have questioned whether his game is polished enough to make an immediate impact at the professional level. With his stock fluctuating, Oweh may face a tough decision: test the waters in the NBA G-League or return to Kentucky, where he could further refine his skills and continue to develop under head coach John Calipari’s watchful eye.
In an interview earlier this season, Oweh hinted at the possibility of returning to Kentucky, saying, “I’ve got to do what’s best for my future. I want to be ready when I make that leap, and sometimes the best thing you can do is to take another year to grow and improve.”
Should Oweh decide to return to the Wildcats, it would provide a major boost to their chances of competing at the highest level next season. His scoring ability, combined with the leadership of other returning players like Williams, could make Kentucky a formidable contender in the SEC and the NCAA Tournament.
The NBA G-League: A Viable Alternative?
Another intriguing option for both players is the NBA G-League, which has become a popular route for players seeking professional development outside of the traditional college basketball system. For many, the G-League represents an opportunity to develop against top-tier competition and potentially secure a spot on an NBA roster. However, the G-League route isn’t always the perfect fit for every player.
Returning to college, as opposed to joining the G-League, allows players like Williams and Oweh to continue their education, play in front of large crowds, and develop their game under the guidance of a legendary coach like Calipari. While the G-League can offer immediate professional experience, the college route offers the platform to showcase their skills on national television and against some of the best collegiate talent in the country.
For Kentucky fans, the thought of Oweh and Williams returning for another season gives the Wildcats the potential for a loaded roster in 2025, which could further boost their status as one of the nation’s top teams.
What’s Next for Kentucky Basketball?
As the NBA Draft approaches, Kentucky fans will be anxiously waiting to see what decision Williams and Oweh will make. Should they both choose to return, the Wildcats could easily find themselves as one of the preseason favorites in college basketball next year. With John Calipari at the helm, the Wildcats’ combination of talent, experience, and leadership would make them a force to be reckoned with in the SEC and beyond.
For now, the uncertainty surrounding their futures has Wildcats Nation on the edge of their seats. Could Otega Oweh be back in a Kentucky uniform next season? Will Amari Williams continue to climb the draft boards, or will he decide that another year at Kentucky is in his best interest?
Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain: whichever direction they choose, both players will continue to shape the future of Kentucky basketball.
Conclusion
With both Amari Williams and Otega Oweh projected to be key figures in the 2025 NBA Draft or potentially return to the Wildcats, Kentucky basketball is poised for a pivotal offseason. The decision of whether to stay in college or turn pro will have significant implications not only for their careers but for the future of UK basketball. Whether they choose the NBA G-League or return to Lexington, one thing is clear — the next chapter in their basketball journeys promises to be filled with excitement.
