Just moments after Otega Oweh’s blockbuster decision to withdraw from the 2025 NBA Draft and return to Lexington for his senior season, his new Kentucky teammate Denzel Aberdeen wasted no time making his intentions clear — and his words have Big Blue Nation buzzing.

“Coming for 9.. 🤞,” Aberdeen posted on social media, a confident and powerful nod toward Kentucky’s pursuit of its ninth national championship.

Aberdeen, a transfer guard from Florida, has been one of Mark Pope’s most intriguing additions this offseason. Known for his toughness, athleticism, and two-way presence, Aberdeen will likely play a critical role in Kentucky’s revamped backcourt — especially now that he’ll be joining forces with Oweh, one of the top returning two-way guards in all of college basketball.

The timing of the post wasn’t lost on fans either. Just as the BBN was celebrating Oweh’s return, Aberdeen’s statement reminded everyone of the ultimate goal in Lexington — banner No. 9.

A Team Taking Shape

With Oweh officially back and Aberdeen locked in, Kentucky’s 2025–26 roster is nearing completion — and it’s stacked with hungry, experienced talent. The duo of Oweh and Aberdeen promises to bring grit and relentless defense, a backcourt combination that could become a nightmare for opposing offenses.

Aberdeen averaged 6.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 21 minutes per game last season with the Gators, showcasing flashes of brilliance and lockdown defensive ability. In Mark Pope’s system, his energy and physicality are expected to thrive.

Fueling the Fire

While Oweh’s return instantly elevates Kentucky into contender status, Aberdeen’s message underscores the mindset of the locker room — they’re not coming back to simply compete, they’re coming to dominate.

And for a program still chasing its first national title since 2012, this kind of confidence is exactly what Big Blue Nation wants to see.

The Wildcats now have 14 of 15 scholarship spots filled, and while the final piece remains uncertain, the message is crystal clear:

This team believes it can hang a banner. Aberdeen said it best: “Coming for 9.. 🤞.”

Get ready, BBN. The chase is on.

🐾🏀

 

Just moments after Otega Oweh’s blockbuster decision to withdraw from the 2025 NBA Draft and return to Lexington for his senior season, his new Kentucky teammate Denzel Aberdeen wasted no time making his intentions clear  and his words have Big Blue Nation buzzing.

“Coming for 9.. 🤞,” Aberdeen posted on social media, a confident and powerful nod toward Kentucky’s pursuit of its ninth national championship.

Aberdeen, a transfer guard from Florida, has been one of Mark Pope’s most intriguing additions this offseason. Known for his toughness, athleticism, and two-way presence, Aberdeen will likely play a critical role in Kentucky’s revamped backcourt  especially now that he’ll be joining forces with Oweh, one of the top returning two-way guards in all of college basketball.

The timing of the post wasn’t lost on fans either. Just as the BBN was celebrating Oweh’s return, Aberdeen’s statement reminded everyone of the ultimate goal in Lexington  banner No. 9.

A Team Taking Shape

With Oweh officially back and Aberdeen locked in, Kentucky’s 2025–26 roster is nearing completion — land it’s stacked with hungry, experienced talent. The duo of Oweh and Aberdeen promises to bring grit and relentless defense, a backcourt combination that could become a nightmare for opposing offenses.

Aberdeen averaged 6.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 21 minutes per game last season with the Gators, showcasing flashes of brilliance and lockdown defensive ability. In Mark Pope’s system, his energy and physicality are expected to thrive.

Fueling the Fire

While Oweh’s return instantly elevates Kentucky into contender status, Aberdeen’s message underscores the mindset of the locker room they’re not coming back to simply compete, they’re coming to dominate.

And for a program still chasing its first national title since 2012, this kind of confidence is exactly what Big Blue Nation wants to see.

The Wildcats now have 14 of 15 scholarship spots filled, and while the final piece remains uncertain, the message is crystal clear:

This team believes it can hang a banner. Aberdeen said it best: “Coming for 9.. 🤞.”

Get ready, BBN. The chase is on.