As the college basketball world continues to buzz with excitement over the NBA Draft, two University of Kentucky (UK) players, Amari Williams and Otega Oweh, are emerging as key figures in the conversation about this year’s draft class. While Williams is firmly positioned as a second-round pick by many scouts, Oweh’s ranking is a bit further down the list, leaving fans and analysts wondering about their next steps—particularly whether either player will choose to return to college for another season or test their professional options in the NBA G-League.
Amari Williams: A Potential Second-Round Pick
Amari Williams has been generating significant buzz among NBA scouts, landing at the 48th spot in CBS Sports’ latest draft rankings. The 6’9” forward has impressed with his versatility, athleticism, and defensive prowess, making him a solid prospect for teams looking for a skilled, physical presence in the frontcourt. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor has caught the attention of scouts who see him as a potential contributor at the next level.
Williams’ rise in the draft rankings reflects his steady development over the past few seasons at Kentucky. As a versatile forward with strong rebounding and shot-blocking abilities, he has the potential to carve out a role in the NBA, whether as a backup or a rotational player who can bring energy and defense off the bench. However, despite his impressive physical tools and skill set, many scouts project him as a second-round pick, which means his future still holds some uncertainty.
For Williams, the decision to enter the draft could hinge on several factors, including feedback from NBA teams, his potential for growth in the G-League, and the opportunities available in the NBA. He may also consider returning to UK for another season to improve his draft stock, work on his offensive game, and gain more experience. If Williams decides to return, he could further solidify his position as one of the top prospects for the 2024 NBA Draft, but the lure of turning pro may prove too tempting.
Otega Oweh: Will He Return to UK for Another Season?
While Williams is firmly in the second-round conversation, Otega Oweh’s situation is a bit more complicated. Ranked lower in the draft projections, Oweh faces the decision of whether to pursue his professional career by entering the NBA Draft or return to the University of Kentucky for another year of college basketball.
Oweh, a 6’7” forward, is known for his athleticism, defensive potential, and competitive spirit. While he has shown flashes of brilliance during his time at UK, particularly with his ability to guard multiple positions and finish around the rim, his offensive game is still a work in progress. As a result, he has not cracked the higher echelons of draft rankings, but his physical attributes make him an intriguing prospect for scouts.
For Oweh, a return to UK could offer the opportunity to refine his skills and increase his draft stock for the following year. The potential for him to become a more consistent offensive threat and further develop his all-around game is real, and another year under Coach John Calipari’s guidance could go a long way toward getting him closer to a first-round selection in the future.
However, the NBA G-League could also be an attractive option for Oweh. With its competitive environment and focus on player development, the G-League offers young prospects like Oweh a platform to improve their skills and showcase their abilities in front of NBA scouts. Should Oweh choose this route, he could gain valuable professional experience, but it would also mean leaving the college game behind for the foreseeable future.
Will Oweh Return to UK?
One of the most interesting storylines surrounding Oweh is whether he will return to UK for another season or head to the NBA G-League. With the rise of the G-League as a legitimate alternative to college basketball for top-tier prospects, Oweh may feel that developing in a professional setting will offer him a better chance to improve and ultimately secure an NBA spot. However, a return to Kentucky could offer him the stability and mentorship he needs to grow his game further and make a more substantial push for the NBA draft in the following years.
While it’s still uncertain which direction Oweh will take, the possibility of him returning to UK is very much alive. With the Wildcats set to have a strong roster for the 2024 season, Oweh could play a pivotal role as a veteran leader and contributor, further cementing his place in UK history and improving his prospects for the NBA.
What’s Next for Williams and Oweh?
The decisions for both Williams and Oweh will likely come down to what each player believes is the best path for their development and long-term goals. For Williams, the decision to stay in the draft or return to UK for another season could depend on the feedback he receives from NBA scouts and his own desire to further develop his game. Oweh, meanwhile, is still weighing his options between the college game and the G-League, with a return to UK being a real possibility that could help him refine his skillset and increase his draft prospects in the long term.
Whatever path they ultimately choose, both Williams and Oweh have bright futures ahead of them. Whether in the NBA, the G-League, or back at Kentucky, these two talented players will continue to captivate fans and analysts as they embark on the next chapter of their basketball careers. Fans of the Wildcats will certainly be keeping a close eye on the situation, eagerly awaiting any developments about the future of two of UK’s most promising players.
