Who is Otega Oweh? Meet Kentucky's March Madness hero with an NFL brother

Otega Oweh made his name known to NCAA Tournament viewers after hitting a game-tying buzzer beater just ahead of halfcourt for the Kentucky Wildcats. Right when the Wildcats were staring at a loss to No. 10 Santa Clara in the face, Oweh hit the shot of his life, and later led Kentucky to an 89-84 OT victory.

The New Jersey native has been Kentucky's best player this season. When his team needed him most, Oweh showed why he gets the ball nearly every possession.

Here is more information about Oweh, his college career and the connection to NFL linebacker Odafe Oweh.

MARCH MADNESS HQ: Live NCAA bracket | Full TV schedule | Printable bracket

Who is Otega Oweh?

Otega Oweh is a 6-foot-4 guard for the Kentucky Wildcats and is currently in his senior year. Previously, he attended Oklahoma before announcing his decision to transfer to the University of Kentucky on April 27, 2024.

In Kentucky's 2026 Round of 64 game, Oweh was the game's leading scorer with 35 points, along with adding eight rebounds, seven assists, a steal and a block. On the brink of Kentucky's elimination, Oweh hit a buzzer-beater three from 32 feet away. 

Kentucky kept the momentum going in overtime, with Oweh scoring six of the Wildcats' 16 OT points, and was victorious 89-84.

Oweh's brother, Odafe, is currently a linebacker for the Washington Commanders in the NFL.

SN EXPERT BRACKETS: DeCourcy (Arizona) | Bender (Michigan) | Iyer (Arizona) | Gay (UCLA women)

Where is Otega Oweh from?

Oweh is from Newark, New Jersey, according to the Wildcats' athletics page. He attended Blair Academy in Blairstown.

Coming out of high school, Oweh was a four-star prospect by ESPN.com.

MORE UPSET PICKS: 10 seeds | 11 seeds | 12 seeds | 13 seeds

How old is Otega Oweh?

Otega Oweh is 22 years old and was born on June 21, 2003. He is the younger brother of 27-year-old Commanders' defensive end Odafe Oweh.

MORE REGION PREVIEWS: East | West | Midwest | South