As Kentucky prepares for a crucial NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 matchup against Tennessee on Friday at Lucas Oil Stadium, guard Otega Oweh is embracing the moment with confidence and a bit of sibling rivalry. The Wildcats star has been a key player all season, averaging 16.3 points per game, and has stepped up even more in the tournament with a 17.5-point average.
Oweh, known for his explosiveness and scoring ability, will be playing in an NFL stadium—one his brother, Odafe Oweh, a linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens, has never played in. When asked about this during Thursday’s media session, Otega couldn’t help but take a lighthearted jab.
“It’s a cool feeling playing in the stadium… Definitely just want to win, say that I won in a football stadium he hasn’t played in. That would be cool,” Oweh said with a grin.
Odafe, who played college football at Penn State before being drafted by the Ravens in 2021, has been a major influence on Otega’s journey. Despite choosing basketball over football, Otega has always looked up to his brother’s work ethic and determination.
“It just means a lot knowing he got to the highest level,” Otega said. “I’m just thankful that he’s in that position. And he’s going to be here tomorrow. So, he’s definitely going to be able to cheer me on.”
With Odafe in attendance, Otega will have extra motivation to lead Kentucky past Tennessee. The Volunteers, known for their aggressive defense, will try to limit Oweh’s impact. When asked whether they could shut him down, Oweh responded with his usual confidence.
“Umm, I don’t know… I hope not. But I’m just going to try to go out there and have good energy,” he said.
Friday’s game, set for a 7:39 p.m. Eastern tip-off, will be a major test for Kentucky, as they look to advance to the Elite Eight. Oweh’s scoring ability and leadership will be crucial in overcoming a tough Tennessee squad.
If Kentucky wins, Oweh will not only bring his team one step closer to a championship but also secure bragging rights over his NFL-playing brother. With family pride and tournament survival on the line, all eyes will be on Oweh to see if he can deliver under the bright lights of March Madness.
