Kentucky backup center, Ugonna Onyenso, has announced that he will return to the school for a sophomore season, as first reported by Ben Roberts of the Herald Leader. The near seven-foot Nigeria native has a promising future in college basketball, although he has yet to receive enough playing time to fully showcase his potential. Despite his hand-eye coordination being a limiting factor, Onyenso has been playing behind one of the best rebounders in the sport over the past 40 years, which has also limited his playing time. While his footwork and hand-eye coordination are a bit elementary at this point his athleticism and willingness to be coached up is apparent.
On November 11, 2022, in a match against Duquesne, Onyenso scored a season-high of 9 points in 20 minutes. He also made four field goals and one assist in the game. Onyenso’s other season highs include playing for 20 minutes against Howard on November 7, 2022, and making two free throws in a game against Michigan on December 4, 2022.
Onyenso pulled down a season-high of 10 rebounds in a game against North Florida on November 23, 2022. Additionally, he displayed his defensive prowess by swatting four shots against Howard on November 7, 2022, and one steal against Auburn on February 25, 2023. Onyenso didn’t attempt any 3-pointers this year but if he works on his long range shot over the summer his draft stock could shoot up to a top 10 pick and help the Wildcats tremendously next year.
While the potential is definitely there, he will need to prove himself in his sophomore year for it to become a reality. However, with the likely departures of Oscar Tshiebwe to the NBA and Daimion Collins through transfer, Onyenso’s opportunities for more minutes could greatly increase during summer workouts.
Despite his limited playing time, BBN is looking forward to Onyenso returning and are hopeful that he will continue to develop and contribute to the team’s success. Standing at nearly seven feet tall, the Nigeria native has the physical attributes to be a dominant player in college basketball.
The offseason has arrived for Kentucky basketball fans, but with it comes the annual turnover of players. Onyenso’s decision to return to Kentucky for his sophomore year provides a glimmer of hope for next years team. Although he has yet to fully showcase his potential, the departure of key players may provide Onyenso with the necessary opportunities to make an impact.
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