Kentucky Standouts Impress at 2025 NBA Draft Combine, But Oweh’s Stock Still Undervalued Despite Strong 5-on-5 Performances: Will Teams Regret Overlooking Him?
CHICAGO, IL — As the 2025 NBA Draft Combine continues to shape narratives and shuffle draft boards, several Kentucky Wildcats have made strong impressions on scouts and analysts. Among them, wing prospect Adou Thiero and guard Ugonna Onyenso have delivered consistent performances in shooting drills, agility tests, and scrimmages. But it’s the gritty, athletic showings of Antonio Oweh in two straight 5-on-5 scrimmages that are quietly turning heads—even if the mock drafts haven’t caught up yet.
Oweh, who entered the combine with little fanfare and ranked No. 72 on ESPN’s Best Available list, showcased his elite defensive instincts, vertical athleticism, and relentless energy in both scrimmages. Whether locking down guards on the perimeter or soaring for fast-break dunks, the 6-foot-5 Kentucky guard proved that he belongs in the NBA conversation.
Oweh’s Combine Performance: Grit, Hustle, and Athletic Pop
In the second day of scrimmage play, Oweh posted 12 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals while shooting an efficient 5-of-8 from the field. He made timely cuts, attacked closeouts with confidence, and showed improved mechanics from three-point range, hitting two of his four attempts.
“He’s not just an athlete—he’s a competitor,” one scout told Draft Digest. “He plays with an edge. You can’t teach motor, and he brings it every possession.”
Despite these flashes, Oweh remains unselected in many reputable mock drafts, and he has not cracked the consensus top 60. That’s left many analysts puzzled, especially considering his pedigree from Kentucky, a program known for producing pro-ready talent.
The Kentucky Effect
Kentucky head coach Mark Pope has been vocal about the high ceiling of his recent group of players. While prospects like Thiero and Onyenso are drawing second-round consideration, it’s Oweh’s underdog status that has created the biggest buzz. His performance may not be flashy, but it’s undeniably impactful.
“He affects the game without needing the ball in his hands. That’s a trait winning teams covet,” noted one Eastern Conference executive. “He’s a plug-and-play guy defensively, and you can see him guarding two to three positions at the next level.”
Why the Market Hesitation?
The hesitation around Oweh’s draft stock may stem from his limited role at Kentucky this past season, where he averaged modest numbers—5.9 points and 3.4 rebounds per game—but often played behind more experienced guards. However, many believe that NBA-style spacing and pace will unlock a new level of his game.
Some scouts also point to his raw offensive polish as a factor, but the Combine has shown promising growth in his shot mechanics and decision-making.
Will Teams Regret Passing on Oweh?
Every draft class has a handful of names that go under the radar only to carve out meaningful NBA careers—think Josh Hart, Bruce Brown, or Jae Crowder. Oweh fits that mold. Teams seeking athleticism, defense, and versatility in the second round—or even as an undrafted signee—could strike gold with the Kentucky product.
If Oweh lands in the right developmental environment, his ceiling may far exceed that of several projected second-rounders. The question is no longer whether he can play at the next level—it’s whether teams will recognize his potential before it’s too late.
