Otega Oweh Escapes Injury Nightmare as Wildcats Advance

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Otega Oweh overcame a bloody mouth injury to help the Kentucky Wildcats secure a thrilling 85-84 victory over Oklahoma in the SEC Tournament on Thursday night. Oweh’s tenacity was showcased despite leaving the court early in the first half after an inadvertent elbow from a defender.

The incident occurred while Oweh was driving to the basket, resulting in a significant cut on the left side of his lip. Although officials did not call a foul during the play, they reviewed the incident and deemed it a basketball play after a commercial break.

Kentucky head coach Mark Pope remained optimistic about Oweh’s recovery, stating, “We just move on to the next guys. Unfortunately, we have a ton of experience doing that and they’ve responded really well. So that’s what we’ll do right now.” Oweh returned to the bench shortly after but needed to be evaluated further in the locker room.

Oweh’s performance was pivotal for the Wildcats, especially after the team faced significant injury issues this season. He has become a key player, averaging 16.5 points per game and leading the team in steals with 1.3 per game. His scoring prowess was critical against Oklahoma, where he recorded 27 points, including the game-winning layup with just half a second left on the clock.

“You mentioned Kentucky guard Otega Oweh is back in the locker room with a very bloody mouth injury,” SEC Network’s Molly McGrath reported during the game. “They’re not too concerned about his ability to return, but I am being told that he is still being evaluated.” Oweh returned to the game with about five and a half minutes left in the first half.

Joining Oweh in the spotlight was freshman guard Collin Chandler, who also faced a heavy hit during the game. After receiving an elbow to the face, Chandler required three stitches but returned to contribute effectively. “I got hit in the face obviously and then I felt the blood dripping down my face,” Chandler said. “I was just trying to get out quick so I could get back in the game. It’s not too bad.”

Chandler’s resilience impressed his teammates and coaches alike. “I’m really proud of him,” Pope said. “He ran back, got stitches, came back in… It’s incredible what he’s doing. Super fun opportunity for him to show his toughness and his dedication to this team.”

As the Wildcats prepare for their next game against the Alabama Crimson Tide, they face further challenges with injuries. The status of Lamont Butler is uncertain after he reinjured his shoulder during the game against Oklahoma.

“First of all, it was fine. It’s all basketball, right? It’s all basketball,” Pope said, reflecting on the injuries and the ensuing chaos. “It just is what it is.” The team remains focused on recovery and strategy as they head into a critical matchup in the tournament, hoping to continue their momentum from a hard-fought victory.