West Virginia’s Bob Huggins calls out ‘outside influences’ as Oscar Tshiebwe transfers to Kentucky

John Calipari and Kentucky are focused on improving on what had been a slow start to the season, but it received some big news that will help the program in 2021-22.

Former West Virginia forward Oscar Tshiebwe is set to transfer to Kentucky and enroll in time for next season. He made the announcement on his Twitter account on Sunday.

A native of the Congo, Tshiebwe made an instant impact for Bob Huggins and the Mountaineers, but through 10 games this season slipped a little from the pace he enjoyed as a freshman.

He ended up entering the transfer portal, with his transfer to the Wildcats being officially announced on Sunday. And while we might never know the whole story behind Tshiebwe’s decision, Huggins made it clear during the season premiere of his weekly television show that he was unhappy with the “outside influences” that ultimately led to the move.

“I think it’s the world we live in,” said Huggins, according to WBOY-TV. “It’s better to steal than it is to work and earn things. It’s take the easy way out, and I think there were some people involved who saw where they could benefit, maybe profit, and worked very diligently at trying to get him out.”

Huggins didn’t address specifics, but whatever they are, he’s not thrilled. But the Mountaineers’ loss certainly appears to be the Wildcats’ gain in this car.

I am grateful for the time I spent at West Virginia, and the lessons that I learned. I’ve spent a lot of time praying to God to help me make the best decision for my future. I am excited for this new chapter of my life. I will continue my career at the University of Kentucky #BBN pic.twitter.com/rm08UwtDBI

— Big O (@Oscartshiebwe34) January 11, 2021

Sydney Hunte

Sydney is an Atlanta-based journalist who has covered everything from SEC and ACC football to MLS, the U.S. men's national soccer team and professional tennis. His work has appeared on such platforms as SB Nation, Cox Media Group and FanSided.