Oscar Tshiebwe declares for NBA draft, leaves door open for rumored Kentucky return

It was enough of a surprise when Oscar Tshiebwe decided to return to Kentucky last year. Could he really spurn the NBA Draft again? One analyst thinks so.

Oscar Tshiebwe was a breakout star for Kentucky during the 2021-22 season, snagging All-American honors and the National Player of the Year Award from multiple selectors. He decided to return to college basketball for the 2022-23 season with hopes of leading a national title charge.

Obviously, things didn’t go to plan. Kentucky made it to the NCAA Tournament but fell to Kansas State in the second round.

Again, Tshiebwe faced an NBA Draft decision this spring, and this time he decided to toss his name into the NBA Draft pool.

Oscar Tshiebwe declares for NBA Draft, could still return to Kentucky

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cqv_mF8Jm8e/

Here’s what Tshiebwe posted on Instagram on Friday:

"“First, I would like to thank God for everything he has done for me! It has been amazing to see the many blessings he has shown me through my time at the University of Kentucky. I would like to thank my family and everyone who has supported me over the years while working towards my dream I would also like to thank Coach Calipari and the coaching staff for believing in a kid from the Congo, as well as my teammates for standing beside me and fighting everyday.“At this time I feel as though it is best for me to declare for the NBA drat while maintaining my college eligibility. As I continue down this path I pray that I can continue to have the amazing love and support of BBN as you will always be in my heart and prayers. Only God knows what my future holds, but until then it’s time to get to work.”"

Declaring for the draft doesn’t mean Tshiebwe’s Kentucky story is complete. The big man has until May 31 to withdraw his name from the draft if he ultimately decides he wants to continue his college career.

The NBA Combine begins on May 15. With an invite all but certain, Tshiebwe will get a better sense of where he sits on NBA Draft boards, no doubt informing his ultimate decision.

Insider predicts Oscar Tshiebwe will return to Kentucky

While the world around Kentucky has been acting like Tshiebwe departing is a foregone conclusion. Not everyone in the CBB world has come to that conclusion.

While discussing the task at hand for head coach John Calipari on the Dan Patrick Show this week, Seth Greenberg actually predicted another return.

“He’s got to get Oscar Tshiebwe to come back, first and foremost, which I actually think he will end up coming back,” Greenberg said.

Now, that was before Tshiebwe declared for the draft, but the possibility is still open.

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