The Oweh brothers maintain a close and healthy bond. Their other brother, Kaylen, is also a collegiate athlete, playing both football and basketball.
Highlights
- Otega Oweh’s success with the Kentucky Wildcats is influenced by his family’s support, especially his older brother Odafe, a linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens.
- The Oweh family of Nigerian heritage has a strong athletic background, with brothers Otega, Odafe, and Kaylen all excelling in sports at various levels.
- Otega Oweh’s college basketball career has seen significant growth, with notable performances at both Oklahoma and Kentucky, where he currently averages 16.2 points per game in the 2024-25 season.
- Otega has mentioned that he can talk to his brother, Odafe, anytime and that their bond is built on positivity and encouragement.
Otega Oweh, a junior guard for the University of Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball team, has been making significant contributions on the court this season.
Born on January 1, 2003, in Blairstown Township, New Jersey, Oweh comes from a family deeply rooted in athletics.
His parents, Tania and Henry Oweh, have four children: Natasha, Odafe (Jayson), Irekefe (Kaylen), and Otega.
The family’s Nigerian heritage has played a pivotal role in shaping their commitment to sports and education.
In an interview, Otega said about his family,
I have always had great family support. Obviously basketball, like other sports, has a lot of ups and downs and things did get magnified more here. I have had occasions before when there were some down times and I always got the same support. BBN has been great but there’s nothing like that family support when you really need it.
yoursportsedge.com
Odafe Was A Standout Defensive End At Penn State Before His 2021 NFL First-Round Selection
Otega’s older brother, Odafe Oweh, has been a significant influence on his athletic journey.
Born on December 15, 1998, in Hackensack, New Jersey, Odafe attended Blair Academy, where he showcased his football talents.
He committed to Penn State University, playing as a defensive end from 2018 to 2020.
During his collegiate career, Odafe recorded notable statistics, including 38 tackles and six tackles for loss in the 2020 season.
Did you know Otega Oweh is the younger brother of Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh? 🏈 pic.twitter.com/8n832bZpf6
— Kentucky Hoops (@kentuckyhoopsig) July 5, 2024
His performance earned him a first-round selection by the Baltimore Ravens in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Since joining the Ravens, Odafe has accumulated 23 sacks over four seasons, with a standout 10-sack performance in the 2024 season.
Odafe Oweh clubbing, ripping then showing off *RIDICULOUS* closing speed before the turf monster gets him.
— Spencer Schultz (@ravens4dummies) August 24, 2022
Lord have mercy he really does run 4.3 pic.twitter.com/pLrZaK4dng
Kaylen Oweh Also Played Basketball At Penn State
The Oweh family’s emphasis on sports extends beyond Odafe and Otega.
Their brother, Irekefe (Kaylen) Oweh, played college basketball at Penn State and St. Thomas Aquinas College and football at Monmouth and Clarion University.
stackin days… pic.twitter.com/NST9f4ORYB
— Irekefe Kaylen Oweh (@kayoweh) June 28, 2023
The eldest sibling, Natasha, has maintained a more private life, with limited public information available.
Parents Tania and Henry have been steadfast supporters of their children’s athletic pursuits, fostering an environment that balances sports and academics.
They are often seen supporting their sons from the stands, cheering, and providing emotional support.
Tania often shares her sons’ achievements and personal milestones on her Instagram.
Otega Has Had An Illustrious Basketball Career Since High School, Where He Also Played Football
Otega’s basketball journey began at Blair Academy, where he initially played as a running back before focusing solely on basketball.
During his time as a high school basketball player, he helped lead Team Final to a 17U Peach Jam title.
His dedication led him to become a four-star recruit, eventually committing to the University of Oklahoma.
Otega Oweh has had an impressive college basketball career, showcasing his talent and skills at both Oklahoma and Kentucky.
During his time at Oklahoma, he gradually improved his performance, starting as a freshman with an average of 4.8 points per game and eventually reaching 11.4 points per game by his sophomore season.
His transition to Kentucky has seen further growth, with Oweh currently averaging 16.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game in the 2024-25 season.
His shooting percentages are also notable, with a 49.5% field goal percentage, a 33.9% three-point percentage, and a 76.8% free throw percentage.
Oweh’s ability to consistently deliver strong performances has made him a key player for the Kentucky Wildcats.
The Oweh Brothers Maintain A Close And Healthy Relationship
The bond between Otega and Odafe remains strong, with Otega often seeking advice from his older brother.
In an interview, Otega mentioned,
I can talk to my brother any time. That is the bond we have. It’s always positivity when I talk to my brothers. It is all encouragement no matter what is going on. We are a religious family and we keep God first whether things are going well or going bad. We take pride in staying the same.
yoursportsedge.com
This familial support system has been instrumental in Otega’s development, providing him with insights into professional athletics and the dedication required to excel.
As Otega continues to make strides with the Kentucky Wildcats and looks forward to a future in the NBA, the influence of his family, especially his brother Odafe, remains evident.
The Oweh family’s commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics serves as a foundation for Otega’s ongoing success on the basketball court.
Additional Information
- During his time at Oklahoma, he posted 12 games with standout defensive performances, contributing significantly to his reputation as a top defender.
- He recently expressed enthusiasm about returning to Norman and competing against his former teammates.
- After being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens, Odafe announced that he would no longer go by his middle name, Jayson, which he used in college to avoid confusion with the pronunciation of his first name.
- Odafe Oweh has a strong friendship with his teammate David Ojabo. They became best friends while attending Blair Academy and have continued their bond as teammates on the Baltimore Ravens.
