In a move set to ignite excitement among Kentucky Wildcats fans, head coach Mark Pope announced on Saturday that Lamont Butler, famed for his game-winning buzzer-beater shot for San Diego State in the 2023 Final Four, will join the Kentucky men’s basketball team for the upcoming 2024-25 season.
Butler arrives at Kentucky with an impressive pedigree, having earned the title of Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year for two consecutive seasons. Over his illustrious collegiate career, Butler has showcased his versatility and tenacity on the court, averaging 7.7 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game across 131 appearances for the Aztecs. During his tenure, San Diego State achieved remarkable success, boasting a record of 104-32 and clinching multiple Mountain West regular-season and tournament titles.
Coach Pope expressed his enthusiasm for Butler’s addition to the Wildcats roster, highlighting his winning mentality and defensive prowess. Butler’s impact extends beyond the court, with his dedication to academics and community engagement earning him admiration from teammates and fans alike.
During his senior season, Butler elevated his game to new heights, averaging a career-best 9.3 points per game while shooting an impressive 48.5% from the field. His defensive acumen was equally impressive, as evidenced by his 1.5 steals per game. Butler’s standout performances included a memorable 23-point outing against Wyoming and a stellar defensive display with four steals against UAB in the NCAA Tournament.
The pinnacle of Butler’s collegiate career came in the 2023 Final Four, where his clutch buzzer-beater against Florida Atlantic etched his name into San Diego State lore. His heroics earned him a spot on the NCAA All-Tournament Team and solidified his reputation as a big-game player.
As Butler embarks on his journey with the Kentucky Wildcats, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing his impact on both ends of the floor. With his track record of success and unwavering dedication, Butler is poised to make a significant contribution to Kentucky’s pursuit of excellence in the 2024-25 season.
In a significant addition to the Kentucky Wildcats roster, head coach Mark Pope revealed on Saturday that Otega Oweh, a standout guard from Oklahoma, will join the program for the upcoming 2024-25 season.
Oweh, known for his sharpshooting prowess and defensive tenacity, brings a wealth of experience to the Wildcats, having logged 60 games and 37 starts over his two-year stint with the Sooners. With two years of eligibility remaining, Oweh is poised to make an immediate impact for Kentucky.
Coach Pope emphasized Oweh’s multifaceted skill set, highlighting his impressive shooting efficiency, defensive prowess, and relentless intensity on the court. Oweh’s ability to stretch the floor, coupled with his knack for drawing fouls, makes him a valuable asset for the Wildcats.
During his sophomore campaign at Oklahoma, Oweh averaged 11.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.5 steals, and 1.0 assists per game. His scoring output was underscored by his exceptional shooting percentages, including a 49.3% mark from the field and an impressive 37.7% from beyond the arc. Oweh showcased his scoring prowess with 19 double-digit scoring performances, including a career-high 23-point outing against North Carolina.
Beyond his scoring contributions, Oweh distinguished himself on the defensive end, tallying multiple steals in 12 games and exhibiting a relentless work ethic that energized his teammates.
A native of Newark, New Jersey, Oweh emerged as a highly touted prospect during his prep career, earning accolades for his standout performances on the court. His impressive trajectory culminated in his decision to join the Kentucky Wildcats, where he aims to continue his development and make a significant impact in the SEC.
With his blend of scoring ability, defensive acumen, and competitive spirit, Oweh is poised to carve out a prominent role in Coach Pope’s rotation. As he embarks on the next chapter of his basketball journey at Kentucky, Oweh’s arrival signals a new era of promise and potential for the Wildcats.
