Kentucky NBA Draft Update
With the NBA Draft Combine in full swing, Kentucky basketball finds itself well-representedeven if this year’s combine lineup feels a bit lighter in Wildcat Blue than in years past. But make no mistake: the legacy runs deep, and the 2025 event offers an intriguing glimpse into the evolving makeup of Big Blue alum in the pros as well as the gears turning back home in Lexington.
Two Kentucky Stars Get Combine Invites
Let’s start with the headline: Antonio Reeves and Justin Edwardstwo of last season’s most high-profile performers in Rupp Arenaare officially invited to participate in the 2024 NBA Draft Combine. These camps typically highlight the nation’s top basketball talent with scouts from every NBA team seatedand scribbling notescourtside.
Reeves, who captivated the Big Blue Nation with clutch shooting and unshakable poise, is widely loved for his veteran savvy and microwave scoring ability. At 6’6”, he brings size and confidence to the off-guard spot, and if he can continue to impress in defensive drills and spot-up shooting, his stock could quietly sneak upward.
Justin Edwards, meanwhile, rocketed into draft chatter as a projected lottery pick last fall but had a season with mixed flashes. There’s no denying his raw talent and athletic upsideNBA scouts are enamored with his 6’8” frame and versatility. Now, a strong showing in the combine measurements, interviews, and scrimmages could either solidify Edwards in the first round or put a few question marks in the scouts’ clipboards. No pressure, right?
Where’s Rob Dillingham?
Here’s a mini-mystery worth noting: Rob Dillinghama projected lottery pick and offensive wizardhas not yet been added to the official combine participant list. But before you hop on the panic train, take a deep breaththis is more a formality than a flag.
Many sure-thing lottery picks skip the combine entirely or participate in select portions like interviews, medical screenings, or agility tests. Dillingham’s slick handle, creativity, and shot-making likely already sold his skillset to NBA front offices, so don’t read too much into his absence. Stay tuned, thougha surprise workout or private interview session could still sneak into the headlines.
G League Combine: Oweh and Brea Representing
While the main combine grabs national attention, the G League Elite Camp continues to be a hidden gem for prospects and evaluators alike. And two names with ties to Kentucky are trying to make their mark:
- Otega Oweh – The Oklahoma transfer, who’s now linked with Kentucky, is participating in the G League event. A tremendous athlete known for his motor and defense, Oweh’s goal is to showcase improved offense and carve out space among a crowded guard field. Solid performances here often lead to call-ups for the main combine.
- Koby Brea – The Dayton sharpshooter made waves with a hot shooting season and is now aiming to show scouts he’s more than just a perimeter sniper. His link to Kentucky in portal rumors hasn’t gone unnoticed, and a combine nod could both boost his pro stock and pique John Calipari’sand now, Mark Pope’sinterest even further.
Under New Management: What This Means for Kentucky
This summer marks new beginnings in Lexington. With Mark Pope now steering the Wildcat ship after Calipari’s storied tenure, the NBA pipeline remains a crucial pillar for the program’s identity. The presence of multiple Kentucky names at both the NBA and G League combines reinforces that message: playing for Kentucky still means a ticket to the big stage.
Pope’s early offseason effortsincluding portal activity and recruiting buzzsignal a commitment to modernizing the program while respecting its draft-rich tradition. A few Wildcats shining in front of pro scouts would only cement Pope’s early tenure with an extra dose of optimism.
Prediction Time: Who Gets the Call?
It’s a volatile year from top to bottom, but if we’re laying down chips, expect Justin Edwards to go in the late lottery or mid-first round, depending on his combine showing. Antonio Reeves could sneak into the second round or sign a two-way deal. Both players will likely hear their names on draft night in some fashion.
Rob Dillingham? Barring something unforeseen, he’s going Top 10. Write it in ink.
Oweh and Brea face longer odds but could benefit from strong shooting and measurements this week. It’s not unheard of for G League combine standouts to crash the final draft day listor at the very least, earn undrafted free agent camp invites.
Final Word: The Pipeline Remains
Even in a “quieter” year by blue-blood standards, Kentucky’s fingerprints are once again all over the NBA Draft Combine circuit. With a new coach calling the plays and a fresh batch of Wildcats preparing to chase their pro dreams, the message to recruits and fans is loud and clear: Lexington remains a launchpad toward basketball’s biggest stage.
Now the only question is: Who’s next?
