BREAKING NEWS: “From Time to Time I Have to Close My Eyes and Look Away”: Mark Pope Reveals Kentucky Star Otega Oweh’s Rule-Breaking Tendencies
Lexington, KY — January 5, 2025
In a candid moment during today’s press conference, Kentucky Wildcats head coach Mark Pope shared an unexpected detail about standout player Otega Oweh, revealing that the star forward has occasionally pushed the boundaries of team rules, much to Pope’s dismay.
While Oweh’s on-court performances have been stellar, including numerous game-winning shots and dominant plays, Pope admitted that he has had to turn a blind eye to the young star’s more unconventional behavior during practice and games. “From time to time, I have to close my eyes and look away,” Pope said with a half-smile, acknowledging Oweh’s tendency to push limits when it comes to his style of play and approach to team discipline.
“Otega is a fierce competitor with an incredible drive, but every now and then, he lets that fire get the best of him,” Pope continued. “He’s had a few moments where he’s, let’s say, bent the rules a little. Whether it’s pushing the tempo too fast, trying something unorthodox in practice, or ignoring my instructions in the heat of the moment—it’s hard to stay mad at him when he brings that much energy to the court.”
Oweh, a sophomore forward who has quickly become one of the most dynamic players in the SEC, has a reputation for playing with a fearless edge. His high-flying dunks, explosive drives to the basket, and fast break opportunities have thrilled Wildcats fans this season. However, it’s his unpredictable moments during practice that have occasionally left his coach shaking his head.
“Sometimes he’s so focused on making the big play that he forgets about the fundamentals,” Pope explained. “And that’s when I have to step in and remind him that there’s a bigger picture at play here. But that’s also what makes Otega special. His confidence and boldness are part of what makes him such a difference-maker.”
Despite these “rule-breaking” moments, Pope emphasized that Oweh’s character and commitment to the team are unquestionable. “When it comes down to it, Otega always puts the team first. He just wants to win, and sometimes that leads to him taking risks. We’re working on channeling that energy in the right direction, and the results speak for themselves.”
Oweh, for his part, took the comments in stride, laughing off the coach’s lighthearted remarks. “I know Coach Pope wants me to play within the system, but sometimes I just can’t help myself. I’m always trying to push the limits and see what I can get away with. But at the end of the day, we’re all trying to do what’s best for the team,” Oweh said.
Kentucky’s success this season, including its top-ranked position in the SEC, can in large part be credited to Oweh’s raw talent and unrelenting energy. His play has often been the spark that ignites the team, and his ability to make high-pressure plays has kept the Wildcats competitive in their toughest matchups.
As the Wildcats prepare for their upcoming games, including a crucial clash with Alabama, all eyes will be on how Oweh continues to balance his fiery, rule-bending nature with the structure that Pope is working hard to instill. “We’ll take the good with the bad,” Pope concluded with a chuckle. “And with Otega, there’s more good than bad.”
For now, Kentucky fans can rest easy knowing that their star player’s occasional rule-breaking tendencies are just part of what makes him the electrifying talent he is.
