**Otega Oweh: My Reasons for Switching from Kentucky Basketball to Duke Basketball**
The decision to switch from one college basketball program to another is never easy, especially when both programs are among the most prestigious in the nation. For me, the choice to transfer from the University of Kentucky to Duke University was the result of careful consideration, personal growth, and a deep understanding of what I wanted for my future—both on and off the court. While Kentucky offered me an incredible opportunity to develop as a player under a legendary coach in John Calipari, Duke presented a new challenge, a different style of play, and a program that aligned more closely with my evolving goals. This transition wasn’t about dissatisfaction with Kentucky but rather about recognizing that Duke was the right place for the next phase of my journey.
First and foremost, my decision was influenced by the coaching philosophy at Duke. Coach Jon Scheyer, though younger than Coach Calipari, has quickly established himself as one of the brightest minds in college basketball. His approach to player development, offensive schemes, and defensive strategies resonated with me in a way that made me feel like I could thrive even more under his system. At Kentucky, the emphasis was often on athleticism and one-on-one play, which helped me grow as an individual talent. However, Duke’s system prioritizes ball movement, spacing, and versatility—elements that I believe will elevate my game to another level. I wanted to be part of a program where I could refine my skills within a structured yet adaptable system, and Duke’s style of play felt like the perfect fit.
Another factor in my decision was the academic opportunities at Duke. While Kentucky is a fantastic institution, Duke’s academic reputation is unparalleled in the world of college athletics. As someone who takes education seriously, the chance to earn a degree from a university known for its rigorous academics was a major draw. Basketball won’t last forever, and I wanted to ensure that I was setting myself up for success beyond the court. Duke’s blend of elite basketball and top-tier academics provides the best of both worlds, allowing me to pursue my dreams in the NBA while also preparing for a future outside of basketball. The resources available to student-athletes at Duke—from academic advisors to networking opportunities—were simply too compelling to ignore.
The culture at Duke also played a significant role in my choice. Both Kentucky and Duke have passionate fan bases and storied traditions, but there was something about the Brotherhood at Duke that stood out to me. The way former players remain connected to the program, the emphasis on teamwork over individual stardom, and the overall sense of family within the program made a strong impression. At Kentucky, the pressure to perform is immense, and while that can be motivating, I also wanted an environment where I could grow as a person, not just a player. Duke’s culture fosters leadership, accountability, and camaraderie—qualities that I value highly and believe will help me become the best version of myself.
Additionally, the opportunity to compete in the ACC was appealing. The SEC is a powerhouse conference, but the ACC offers a different style of basketball, with a focus on disciplined play and high-IQ basketball. I wanted to test myself against a variety of opponents, from North Carolina to Virginia, and prove that I could excel in different systems. The ACC’s reputation for producing NBA-ready players was another factor; seeing how Duke alumni have seamlessly transitioned to the next level gave me confidence that this was the right place for my development.
Lastly, my relationships with the players at Duke made a difference. During my visit, I connected with several guys on the team, and it was clear that the chemistry was strong. Building trust with teammates is crucial, and I felt an immediate sense of belonging at Duke. The way they embraced me, both as a player and as a person, made the decision much easier. At Kentucky, I had great teammates, but sometimes a fresh start with a new group can reignite your passion for the game.
In the end, my choice to transfer wasn’t about running away from Kentucky but about running toward something that felt right for my future. Duke offered the perfect combination of basketball excellence, academic prestige, and personal growth opportunities. I’ll always be grateful for my time at Kentucky—the lessons I learned, the friendships I made, and the experiences I had will stay with me forever. But now, I’m excited for this new chapter, ready to embrace the challenges ahead, and determined to make the most of my opportunity at Duke. This decision wasn’t made lightly, but I’m confident it was the right one for my career and my life beyond basketball.
