Otega Oweh, Kentucky’s All-SEC guard, set the Big Blue Nation buzzing with his dramatic return announcement on May 28. Fans speculated about the timing of his decision after noticing his haircut in the video accompanying the news. Oweh, however, cleared the air in a recent interview, sharing the story behind the video and his new look.
A Just-in-Case Video
The video, filmed before Oweh entered the NBA Draft process, depicted him with his signature long hair. Sitting in a chair at the Joe Craft Center, Oweh spoke about his love for Kentucky and his decision to stay.
“This year exceeded all of my expectations,” Oweh said in the clip. “Through all the highs and the lows, I’ve found a family in Kentucky forever. So let’s run it back, I’m staying home.”
But was he always planning to return? Oweh explained that the video was part of a contingency plan orchestrated by the team’s media staff.
“Our video guy wanted to do one last piece, just in case,” Oweh revealed. “He said, ‘If you decide to come back, we’ll use it. If not, it’s okay.’ I didn’t film a goodbye video, though—I never needed one.”
A New Era, A New Look
As Oweh began preparing for the draft, he decided it was time for a change, opting to cut his hair for the first time in four years. The decision wasn’t just about aesthetics—it symbolized a fresh start as he prepared to take on a leadership role in his final college season.
“I wanted to try something new,” Oweh said. “It’s a new era, man. I might jump a little higher now, be a little faster. We’ll see.”
Teammate Brandon Garrison initially doubted Oweh’s resolve to cut his hair. “After the season, he said he was gonna do it, but I thought he was just chatting,” Garrison joked. “When he showed me, I couldn’t believe it.”
Anchoring Kentucky’s Championship Push
Oweh’s return solidifies Kentucky’s status as a championship contender. With his leadership on and off the court, the Wildcats are poised for a deep tournament run.
The haircut may be a small detail, but for Oweh, it represents a commitment to growth and success. And for Big Blue Nation, it’s a symbol of a bright future.
New Look, Same Heart: Oweh Ready to Lead Big Blue Nation!
