Otega Oweh delivered a moment Kentucky fans won’t forget anytime soon, sealing a heart-pounding 85-84 victory over Oklahoma in the SEC Tournament with an electrifying buzzer-beater. With just seconds on the clock, Oweh’s left-handed, running floater banked off the glass and into the hoop, reigniting hopes for a Wildcats team hungry for postseason success.
The shot not only clinched Kentucky’s first SEC Tournament win since 2022 but also ended a drought of victories over top competition in the event dating back to 2018. The Bridgestone Arena in Nashville erupted as Big Blue Nation celebrated a win that felt like years in the making.
A Rollercoaster Finish
For most of the game, Kentucky seemed in control. The Wildcats built a commanding lead late in the second half, fueled by suffocating defense and clutch shooting. Oweh, who has been Kentucky’s offensive anchor against Oklahoma all season, was once again spectacular, showcasing his scoring prowess with 55 points over two games against his former team.
However, the game took a dramatic turn in the final moments. A series of costly turnovers allowed the Sooners to storm back into contention. Jeremy Fears capitalized on Kentucky’s miscues, giving Oklahoma a one-point lead with just five seconds remaining. For a moment, it seemed Kentucky’s recent postseason struggles might rear their ugly head once more.
Then, Oweh took over.
A Moment of Brilliance
With the game on the line, Oweh received the inbounds pass, sprinted the length of the court, and launched his now-iconic shot from a tough angle. The ball kissed the backboard and dropped in as the buzzer sounded, sending the Wildcats into a frenzy and advancing them to the SEC quarterfinals.
Head coach Mark Pope marveled at Oweh’s composure in the clutch. “He shook off the turnovers and delivered when we needed it most,” Pope said. “It’s a testament to his resilience and belief in himself.”
Looking Ahead
The victory was crucial for Kentucky’s morale and momentum as they prepare to face Alabama, the SEC’s No. 3 seed, on Friday night. However, the Wildcats may have to battle without Lamont Butler, who exited the game with a shoulder injury. His status remains uncertain, adding another layer of challenge to Kentucky’s postseason journey.
Despite the adversity, Oweh’s heroics have reignited optimism among the fanbase. Moments like this remind us why March basketball is so special—where underdogs rise, history is written, and buzzer-beaters define the magic.
As the Wildcats gear up for another tough test, one thing is certain: with Otega Oweh on the court, anything is possible.
