Former WVU F Oscar Tshiebwe Leaves Kentucky For NBA Draft

As Wednesday’s NBA draft deadline approached, Kentucky big man Oscar Tshiebwe announced that he will leave school for a professional career. Tshiebwe played at West Virginia from 2019-21 before transferring to Kentucky.

Tshiebwe released the following:

“First, I would like to thank God for the many blessings he has shown me. I know I wouldn’t be here without him guiding me through this journey of life. Second, I would like to thank my family and closest friends for everything they have sacrificed in getting to this point in my life. I would like to thanks coach Cal and his staff for their support and belief in me during my life at UK. Lastly, I would like to thank BBN for the love, support, and loyalty you have given me and my teammates over the years. I wouldn’t want to play for anyone or anywhere else.

“During this time, I have decided to remain in the 2023 NBA Draft and begin my professional career. 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.”

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Tshiebwe leaves Kentucky after two seasons. The 6-foot-9 forward had second round projections in last year’s NBA draft before returning for his senior year. Tshiebwe had the option to use his free COVID year for the 2023-24 season. Tshiebwe averaged 16.5 points and 13.7 rebounds this past season for the Wildcats. Tshiebwe was named AP Player of the Year in 2022.

Tshiebwe transferred from West Virginia early 2021 on a bad note. WVU head coach Bob Huggins said that Tshiebwe just left and went to Kentucky without having any closure. Tshiebwe played 41 games for the Mountaineers, averaging 10.6 points and 8.9 rebounds.