Oscar Tshiebwe is entering the 2023 NBA Draft.

Tshiebwe announced that news on Friday afternoon. He also said he intends to maintain his collegiate eligibility throughout the process, leaving open the possibility that he could return to Lexington for another season.

Here’s his announcement:

 

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“As I continue down this path I pray that I can continue to have the amazing love and support of BBN as you will always be in my heart and prayers,” he wrote in-part.

Tshiebwe is a two-time All-American at Kentucky and was named National Player of the Year for his season in 2021-22. This past season, he averaged 16.5 points and 13.7 rebounds per contest.

What this means for Kentucky

If Kentucky does lose Tshiebwe to the NBA Draft, he would be very difficult to replace. However, Kentucky has reportedly been in contact with other centers in the transfer portal such as Michigan’s Hunter Dickinson.

Kentucky also has a top freshman center joining the program this offseason. The Wildcats have already signed 5-star center Aaron Bradshaw in the class of 2023. Bradshaw is the No. 1 center in the country for his recruiting cycle, per 247Sports Composite rankings.

The Wildcats also still have backup center Daimion Collins on the roster.

Tshiebwe will have until May 31 to withdraw from the 2023 NBA Draft and maintain his college eligibility.