Ortega Oweh Makes History: Wins 2025 Bob Cousy Award and Midseason Wooden Award

In what is undoubtedly one of the most thrilling and unprecedented accomplishments in college basketball, Ortega Oweh, the star shooting guard of the University of Kentucky Wildcats, has etched his name in the sport’s history by winning both the prestigious 2025 Bob Cousy Award and the Midseason Wooden Award. This extraordinary achievement not only reflects Oweh’s brilliance on the court but also his relentless drive, leadership, and ability to elevate his team in one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory.

A Historic Feat

While earning one of these coveted awards is a monumental achievement for any college basketball player, winning both the Bob Cousy Award (given annually to the nation’s top point guard) and the Midseason Wooden Award (which is presented to the best player in college basketball during the first half of the season) in the same year is almost unheard of. In fact, it’s only the second time in history that a player has secured both awards in the same season. Oweh’s accomplishment speaks to his all-around skills and impact on the game—qualities that make him not only an elite shooting guard but a player capable of changing the course of a game in any situation.

The Bob Cousy Award is traditionally awarded to the nation’s best point guard, a position that typically requires exceptional ball-handling, court vision, and leadership. However, Oweh has shown that these skills are not confined to a traditional point guard. While playing the shooting guard position for the Wildcats, Oweh has demonstrated an uncanny ability to distribute the ball and set up his teammates in addition to being a dynamic scorer. His ability to impact all facets of the game, whether it’s scoring from beyond the arc, attacking the basket, or orchestrating his team’s offense, has set him apart from his peers.

Meanwhile, the Wooden Award is given to the best player in college basketball, a title that typically goes to someone who dominates on both ends of the floor and carries his team to victory. Oweh’s combination of scoring, defense, and leadership has made him the front-runner for this prestigious honor as the Wildcats continue to make waves in the NCAA tournament race.

A Look at Oweh’s Historic Season

Oweh’s rise to dominance this season has been nothing short of spectacular. His ability to impact games in multiple ways has made him one of the most exciting and electrifying players to watch in college basketball. As of midseason, Oweh was averaging an impressive 21.5 points, 5.4 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game, while maintaining a shooting efficiency of 47% from the field and 41% from beyond the arc. His scoring consistency has been a key factor in Kentucky’s success, as he has been able to deliver under pressure and perform in clutch moments.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Oweh’s game is his versatility. While he plays as a shooting guard, he’s not confined to just scoring. His court vision and ability to facilitate the offense have often blurred the lines between the shooting guard and point guard roles. His basketball IQ is off the charts, allowing him to make decisions quickly and efficiently. Oweh’s ability to break down defenses, whether it’s by pulling up for a jump shot or driving to the basket, has made him one of the most difficult players to defend in the country.

Beyond his statistical accomplishments, Oweh has been the emotional and psychological leader of the Wildcats. His poise under pressure, work ethic, and competitiveness have been contagious to his teammates. Oweh’s leadership extends beyond the court, as he consistently elevates the performance of those around him. His willingness to step up when the game is on the line and take charge in pivotal moments has earned him the respect and admiration of his coaching staff and teammates.

The Bob Cousy Award: A True Point Guard’s Award

Although the Bob Cousy Award has traditionally been reserved for point guards, Oweh’s inclusion in the discussion and eventual victory is a testament to his evolution as a player. Historically, the award has gone to floor generals who excel in facilitating the offense, distributing the ball, and making their teammates better. While Oweh’s primary position is shooting guard, his high basketball IQ and unselfishness have allowed him to excel in these areas.

Oweh’s playmaking abilities have been on full display this season, as he has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to orchestrate the Wildcats’ offense, make crisp passes, and create scoring opportunities for his teammates. His 5.4 assists per game are impressive for a player who is primarily known for his scoring, showing that he can thrive both as a scorer and a facilitator.

In several games, Oweh’s leadership has shone through, guiding Kentucky to hard-fought victories by getting his teammates involved and maintaining control of the tempo. Whether it’s a well-timed assist, an expertly executed pick-and-roll, or finding the open man in transition, Oweh has proven he can be both the catalyst and the playmaker that every team needs to succeed. His ability to contribute in so many ways fits perfectly with the essence of the Bob Cousy Award, making him the ideal recipient of this honor.

The Midseason Wooden Award: The Best of the Best

Winning the Midseason Wooden Award places Oweh in the rare company of some of the most accomplished players in college basketball history. This award recognizes the player who has demonstrated the highest level of excellence in all aspects of the game, and Oweh’s performance this season has more than earned him this recognition.

With Kentucky sitting near the top of the national rankings, Oweh’s stellar performances in big games have played a pivotal role in the team’s success. His ability to score, defend, and facilitate has allowed the Wildcats to maintain a competitive edge in an always tough SEC. Oweh’s blend of scoring explosiveness, basketball IQ, and leadership has made him an overwhelming force, both on offense and defense.

The Midseason Wooden Award has often served as a precursor to the final award given at the end of the season, which typically goes to the player who continues to deliver at the highest level and leads his team to success. If Oweh maintains his level of play, there is little doubt he will be in the conversation for the final Wooden Award at the season’s conclusion.

What’s Next for Oweh and Kentucky?

With this double accomplishment, Ortega Oweh has solidified his place as one of the most dominant players in college basketball. His remarkable achievements this season have drawn attention from NBA scouts, and it’s expected that Oweh will be a top prospect in the upcoming NBA Draft. However, for now, Oweh remains focused on bringing Kentucky back to the pinnacle of college basketball by securing a deep run in the NCAA tournament.

Oweh’s historic season is not just a personal triumph but also a reflection of Kentucky’s continued prominence in college basketball. Under head coach John Calipari, the Wildcats have remained one of the top programs in the nation, and Oweh’s leadership and talent are critical to their championship aspirations.

As Oweh continues to lead the Wildcats toward what could be a national championship, his historic achievement of winning both the Bob Cousy Award and the Midseason Wooden Award will be remembered as one of the most remarkable individual accomplishments in recent college basketball history.