Kentucky star Oscar Tshiebwe stays in NBA draft

Oscar Tshiebwe delivers 37 PTS, 24 REB in win over Georgia | ESPN College Basketball

Kentucky Wildcats star Oscar Tshiebwe announced his decision to stay in the NBA draft on Wednesday, ending a college career that saw him earn consensus National Player of the Year in 2022.

Tshiebwe entered the draft in April and left the possibility open for a return to the Wildcats for another season. However, he made the final call just before the midnight deadline.

Rod Boone

2023-06-01 12:34

Spoke with Oscar Tshiebwe following today’s session with the #Hornets. He said the workout went well. He is going to announce whether he’s staying in the draft or returning to Kentucky at 5 p.m. “Just trust the process,” he said. “But it’s going to be a good decision tonight.” https://t.co/85iZv2RoV3

323 13

Tshiebwe took to Instagram to thank the Kentucky coaching staff and fan base, known as the Big Blue Nation (BBN), for their unwavering support. He acknowledged their belief in him throughout his time there and expressed his fondness for the program and its fans.

“During this time, I have decided to remain in the 2023 NBA Draft and begin my professional career,” he wrote. “I hope as I continue to fight for my dream of playing in the NBA, you will continue to support me. Thank you BBN for everything and I am so lucky to always call Kentucky home.”

Big O

2023-06-01 12:34

Always in my prayers and heart BBN 🙏🏼 God has great plans for me and I am filled with hope for a great future. – Jeremiah 29:11 https://t.co/M2RCDmLRmM

2802 216

Tshiebwe’s college career and draft prospects

As a 6-foot-9 center, Tshiebwe established himself as a dominant force in college basketball. The Congolese athlete averaged 17.4 points and a leading 15.1 rebounds per game in the 2022 season when he got the National Player of the Year award.

During the recent season, he topped the nation in rebounds again, averaging 13.7 per game while contributing 16.5 points and shooting 56 percent from the field. Tshiebwe received All-American honors for the second time in his career.

Before joining Kentucky, Tshiebwe spent his freshman season and a portion of his sophomore season with the West Virginia Mountaineers, where he averaged 11.2 points and 9.3 rebounds per game.

Despite his notable college statistics, Tshiebwe’s draft stock is not guaranteed, with ESPN ranking him at No. 75 in their NBA draft rankings.

Tshiebwe’s decision adds to the roster challenges that Kentucky and head coach John Calipari face this offseason. Alongside Tshiebwe, Cason Wallace and Jacob Toppin have also declared for the NBA draft.

Antonio Reeves and Chris Livingston are also considering their options as the withdrawal deadline approaches. Meanwhile, Sahvir Wheeler, CJ Fredrick, Daimion Collins, Lance Ware and several other players have left Kentucky through the transfer portal this offseason.