Oscar Tshiebwe talks about his growth as a leader, message to Kentucky teammates

Oscar Tshiebwe has certainly become the face of Kentucky basketball program. Tshiebwe elected to return to Lexington for his senior season as the reigning Consensus National Player of the Year. While a lot of responsibilities will come on the floor, he’s also now responsible for taking on the role as one of the Wildcat’s leaders.

Tshiebwe spoke to the media about his role in this upcoming season. He says he’s just trying to keep everyone explicitly on the same page yet comfortable enough to be curious.

“This year I just want everyone to do the right things. Making sure you be where you’re supposed to be, in the gym, and working,” said Tshiebwe. “I want them to understand that this game sometimes is confusing. Come ask something or ask the coaches. If you don’t ask the questions, you’re not going to know what to do. If I don’t know how to help, I might tell (them) to go see the coaches.”

Tshiebwe will be one of six seniors on Kentucky’s roster this season. He’s also one of the eight returning players from last season. Amongst the veteran group, though, Tshiebwe’s voice carries the most weight in the UK program. He believes it’s on him for keeping his teammates overall accountable and keeping their main objective in mind.

“Be responsible for everything you do. Make sure you do your school work. Make sure you stay on track,” Tshiebwe said. “They’re doing really good right now because we have no time to rest. This is the time where we’ve got to come together. We all (have) one goal.”

No. 15 seed Saint Peter’s upset No. 2 seeded Kentucky in the 2022 NCAA Tournament. That was the latest in a string of shortcomings that has caused some loss in confidence in the UK program. That is what has Oscar Tshiebwe as focused as he is. He knows the clock is ticking both on his college career and for the expectations of the program. It’s now up to he and his teammates to undeniably answer the call.

“This year is not a year where we can joke around. It’s a year where everybody’s gotta do what they’re supposed to do and to stay focused. That’s what I’m doing now to help my teammates. We gotta be together. Together makes us one and it means we’re stronger.