After making waves with their return to the Kentucky Wildcats basketball program, standout players Otega Oweh and Brandon Garrison sat down for their first official offseason interviewsโoffering fans a glimpse into their mindset, goals, and the atmosphere surrounding Kentucky basketball heading into a pivotal season.
Both players arrived in Lexington this offseason via the transfer portal, and expectations are already soaring. Oweh, known for his tenacity on both ends of the court, and Garrison, a rising interior force with elite rebounding and defensive instincts, are expected to be instrumental in reshaping Kentucky’s style of play. Their interviews not only emphasized their commitment to success but also highlighted the culture being cultivated under head coach Mark Pope.
Oweh, a 6’5″ guard who previously starred at Oklahoma, was all smiles as he discussed his transition to Kentucky. โThe moment I stepped on campus, it just felt like home,โ he said. โThe fans, the staff, the playersโitโs a brotherhood here. Coach Pope has brought this energy thatโs contagious, and weโre all buying in.โ Owehโs athleticism and ability to guard multiple positions make him a potential leader on the wing. In his interview, he emphasized the work ethic being built over the summer. โWeโre up early, grinding, learning the system, and building chemistry. I think fans are going to love what they see from this group.โ
Garrison, a 6’11” big man who transferred from Oklahoma State, echoed Owehโs sentiments and praised the coaching staff for their transparent communication and vision. โComing to Kentucky wasnโt just about basketballโit was about growth,โ Garrison said. โCoach Pope showed me a planโnot just to win games, but to become the best version of myself on and off the court.โ Garrisonโs presence in the paint is expected to shore up Kentuckyโs frontcourt, giving the Wildcats a strong interior anchor. In his words, โThis program is legendary, and Iโm ready to leave my mark.โ
Both players acknowledged the immense legacy theyโre stepping into by joining Kentucky. โWearing this jersey means something,โ Oweh remarked. โYouโre part of history every time you take the floor, and that pushes you to be better every day.โ
When asked about team chemistry and adapting to new teammates, Garrison was quick to highlight the camaraderie already forming. โWeโre jelling fast,โ he said. โThereโs no egoโjust a group of guys who want to win. Thatโs rare, and itโs special.โ Oweh added, โFrom day one, weโve been pushing each other. Everyoneโs hungry.โ
The interviews also shed light on their offseason priorities. For Oweh, improving his shooting consistency and leadership presence are top of mind. Garrison, meanwhile, is focused on adding strength and becoming more vocal defensively. Both players cited the competitive atmosphere in practice as a driving force.
As Kentucky reloads under new leadership, the addition of Oweh and Garrison brings both talent and maturity to the roster. Their first interviews werenโt just a welcome to the fanbaseโthey were a declaration that the Wildcats are building something serious. With hunger, humility, and hard work, these two rising stars are poised to make a major impact in Lexington.
