In a moment that took the sporting world by surprise and sent waves across both the track and basketball communities, Nigerian-born track sensation Otega Oweh has officially announced his engagement—and upcoming wedding—to Jalisa “Jaz” Monroe, a dazzling shooting guard and rising star for the Kentucky Wildcats women’s basketball team.
The announcement came via a joint Instagram post on Sunday night, featuring a stunning photo of Oweh down on one knee beneath a floral arch set against the University of Kentucky’s Wildcat Plaza. The caption read simply: “Two hearts. One race. Forever starts now.” Accompanying the photo was a close-up of Monroe’s hand, adorned with a radiant 3.5-carat cushion-cut diamond ring, custom-designed to reflect both of their athletic passions—engraved with their initials and jersey numbers.
Oweh, 26, is no stranger to the limelight. A national 100m and 200m champion, he’s been dubbed “Nigeria’s Lightning Bolt” for his explosive speed and fiery determination. His performances on the world stage—particularly his silver medal run in the World Championships last year—have made him a household name across Africa and beyond.
But despite his accolades on the track, few saw this romantic twist coming.
Jalisa Monroe, 23, has been the heartbeat of the Wildcats’ offense since her freshman year. Known for her court vision, fierce defense, and a three-point shot as clean as Oweh’s 100-meter finish line, she recently led Kentucky to the Final Four. A Louisville native, Monroe has always carried herself with a quiet grace and leadership that mirrors Oweh’s own composed intensity on the track.
Their paths first crossed at a Nike-sponsored youth sports summit in 2022, where both were keynote speakers. According to close friends, the connection was instant. “They just clicked,” said Monica Harris, a teammate of Monroe’s. “It was like watching two stars align—literally.”
In the two years since, they’ve kept their relationship mostly under wraps, spotted occasionally at each other’s events but never making anything public—until now.
The couple plans to wed this fall in Lagos, Nigeria, blending traditional Nigerian wedding customs with modern flair. Sources say the guest list includes a who’s-who of global athletes, coaches, and celebrities. The ceremony will be followed by a reception in Lekki, featuring performances by Burna Boy and Tems.
Fans have already taken to social media with the trending hashtag #WildcatWedding, celebrating the couple’s union as not just a love story, but a cultural and athletic crossover. “It’s like Serena and LeBron falling in love,” one tweet read. “Power, elegance, and Black excellence.”
As Oweh and Monroe prepare to walk down the aisle, their story serves as a reminder that sometimes, love sprints in when you least expect it—and this time, it sprinted in wearing spikes and high-tops.
