Kentucky Wildcats guard Otega Oweh makes history with a New York Times Magazine feature, landing a multi-million dollar deal with Ford.
Guard Otega Oweh has made history as the first Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball player to be featured in the famous New York Times Magazine. The colossal feat is not only a personal triumph for Oweh, but also a watershed moment for the whole Kentucky basketball program — and, in many respects, for college basketball in general.
At only 21 years old, Oweh’s journey to national popularity has been nothing short of remarkable. Oweh, known for his explosive agility, lockdown defense, and aggressive playmaking abilities, has repeatedly delivered under duress and established himself as a key component of the Wildcats’ turnaround. Now, the basketball world is paying note, as is corporate America.
In conjunction with his historic magazine article, Ford Motor Company announced a multi-million dollar sponsorship contract with Oweh, citing his “exceptional sportsmanship, character, and marketability as a future face of the sport.” The agreement not only reflects Oweh’s rising star in the game, but it also represents a new era in collegiate athletics, when name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights enable student-athletes to leave legacies far beyond the court.
Speaking about the honor, Oweh said,
“This moment is larger than me. It’s about showing the next generation that greatness is achievable no matter where you start. Being on the cover of The New York Times Magazine and working with a worldwide brand like Ford is a dream come true. But I’m still hungry, working, and determined to bring a title to Big Blue Nation.”
Kentucky coach John Calipari commended Oweh’s accomplishment, noting,
“Otega embodies everything we stand for at Kentucky, including hard work, humility, and heart. His accomplishment is a reflection of his hard work and the support structure at the University of Kentucky.”
The feature article in The New York Times Magazine dives into Oweh’s background, Nigerian-American roots, and journey from high school standout to university superstar. It emphasizes his leadership on and off the court, and it presents his narrative as a metaphor for the changing world of college athletics, where talent, personality, and purpose can all come together to make a genuine difference.
This historic occasion is more than just a celebration of individual brilliance; it also sends a powerful message about what is achievable when preparation meets opportunity. Oweh’s path serves as an example to young athletes around the country, providing a blueprint for success in today’s game.
As the Wildcats prepare for another highly anticipated season, all eyes will be on Otega Oweh, not only as a basketball player, but also as a trailblazer. From Lexington to the national spotlight, his journey is only just beginning.