Otega Oweh Returns to Kentucky Basketball Practice

Birmingham, Alabama, October 15, 2025

News Summary

After over two months of recovery from turf toe, Otega Oweh is back in practice with the Kentucky men’s basketball team. His return has sparked excitement among fans and teammates. Fully healthy and ready to compete, Oweh aims to make a significant impact this season as a key player, having been named the Southeastern Conference Preseason Player of the Year. The Wildcats are preparing for their first exhibition game against Purdue with high expectations for the upcoming season.

Birmingham, Alabama — Otega Oweh has officially returned to Kentucky men’s basketball practice after dealing with turf toe for over two months. His return was confirmed during SEC Media Days and has generated excitement among fans and teammates alike. Oweh stated that he is feeling good and has no restrictions, indicating he is fully healthy and ready to participate in upcoming games.

Oweh expressed gratitude that his injury was not more severe, showing optimism about his return to the court. Currently, he is actively participating in all drills and competitive reps with his teammates, a promising sign as Kentucky prepares for their season. The training staff has been cautious with Oweh to prevent any potential setbacks during his recovery.

On his first day back, Oweh attempted a dramatic dunk, showcasing his competitive nature and athleticism, and despite reporting some soreness after practice, he feels like his old self. Head coach John Calipari believes that if any player can overcome a late return from injury, it is the experienced senior guard.

The Kentucky Wildcats are getting ready for their first exhibition game against top-ranked Purdue, which is less than two weeks away. Oweh, who was named the Southeastern Conference Preseason Player of the Year prior to the start of the season, is a focal point for the team this year. In addition to Oweh’s accolade, junior guard Jaland Lowe received preseason third-team honors, highlighting the depth of talent within the Wildcats’ roster.

Expectations are high for the Wildcats this season as they were ranked to finish second in the SEC standings. Oweh’s contributions will be vital, especially considering he led the team in several statistics last season, including scoring and steals. His performance earned him All-SEC Second-Team honors and recognition as a member of the NABC All-District First Team.

Oweh becomes the seventh Wildcat to achieve the Preseason Player of the Year honor since the Southeastern Conference began selecting a preseason player in 1997-98. The Kentucky basketball program boasts a rich history, having won the most regular-season titles in the SEC, with a total of 49 championships.

The annual Blue-White Game is scheduled for October 17, followed by exhibition games on October 24 and October 30. The highly anticipated regular season opener is set for November 4 against Nicholls at Rupp Arena, where fans will get their first look at the team’s potential and talent.

Upcoming Games for Kentucky Wildcats

• Blue-White Game: October 17
• Exhibition Game: October 24
• Exhibition Game: October 30
• Regular Season Opener: November 4 against Nicholls at Rupp Arena

Key Statistics and Honors

• Otega Oweh named Southeastern Conference Preseason Player of the Year
• Jaland Lowe received preseason third-team accolades
• Oweh led the team in scoring and steals last season
• Oweh earned All-SEC Second-Team honors and NABC All-District First Team recognition
• Kentucky finished second in SEC standings prediction

Historical Context

Since SEC began selecting a preseason player of the year in 1997-98, Oweh is the seventh Wildcat to achieve this honor. The Kentucky basketball team has a storied history and is recognized for winning the most regular-season titles in the SEC, with 49 championships to their credit.

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Additional Resources

• UK Athletics: Otega Oweh Selected as SEC Preseason Player of the Year
• A Sea of Blue: Otega Oweh Returns to Practice After Missing Over 2 Months Due to Toe Injury
• Sports Illustrated: Otega Oweh Speaks About Kentucky’s Mission Towards Number Nine at SEC Media Days
• 247 Sports: Kentucky Basketball SEC Predicted Order of Finish
• Wikipedia: Otega Oweh
• Google Search: Kentucky Wildcats Basketball
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Basketball
• Google News: SEC Basketball

Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER

The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.