LOOK: Kentucky center Ugonna Onyenso is SHREDDED

The Big Blue Nation collectively exhaled a sigh of relief when Ugonna Onyenso announced that he would not transfer away from Kentucky after previously stating that he intended to do so.

Onyenso, who played a limited role with the Wildcats as a freshman in 2022-23, has undergone a significant body transformation since arriving in Lexington last summer. Kentucky’s strength and conditioning coach Brady Welsh, who is entering his second season with the program, is the main reason why. He took to social media on Thursday to flex Onyenso’s progress over the last several months.

According to Welsh, in the last nine months, Onyenso went from 222 pounds to now clocking in at 234 with plenty of added muscle to his 6-foot-11 frame. Onyenso’s body fat percentage dropped from 11.0 percent down to 7.6 percent, Welsh says, and he also improved his vertical jump from 29 inches to 34 inches.

Just look at where Onyenso was back in August compared to now.

During his rookie campaign in ’22-23 with the ‘Cats, Onyenso averaged 2.5 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks in just 6.9 minutes per game. He showcased plenty of potential as a rim-running, shot-blocking big man, but never got a full opportunity to play starter-level minutes. That could change as he embarks on his sophomore season, especially if the added strength can make him a more imposing presence in the paint.

It sure is nice to have you back, Ugo.