Before we dig into UK news, I want to thank the parents and coaches who help in keeping this newspaper rolling.

It is tough to be in two places at once. 

I appreciate those who send me information and photos to recognize our student-athletes.

It is crucial to get these kids’ names out there and document their achievements.

Twelve Martin County seniors and counting will continue their athletic careers this upcoming fall.

What an incredible stat in such a small town.

Let’s keep recognizing these kiddos and hopefully we see some of them return to contribute to their home county.

Moving on to the Wildcats.

We are two weeks away from the NBA Draft deadline to withdraw NCAA names.

Otega Oweh is still up in the air at this point. 

“I’m all in,” are his words on draft workouts.

His ultimate goal is to play in the NBA.

With his brother playing in the NFL, I am not sure money is too much of an object for him.

At this moment, he is a late second-round pick. It is risky to stay in, as it is a possibility he goes undrafted.

Upon a Kentucky return, he is looking at millions in NIL collectives.

It is hard to say if he can outperform what he did this year. Oweh was extremely consistent and put up incredible game-winners.

But we also thought Tshiebwe could not outdo himself in year 2.

Also testing the waters is Pitt transfer Jaland Lowe.

He is projected as a second rounder, with a potential first round pick in next year’s draft.

I see him returning to college basketball.

But if we lose him and Oweh to the NBA, Pope will have to pull off some late heroics once again in the transfer portal.

Losing one still puts is in a great position, but Oweh is a difference maker and we become NCAA champion contenders with him.

The transfer portal and NIL have changed college basketball.

For the better? That is to be determined.

But for now and the foreseeable future, championships will be won with veterans and the portal.

October cannot come soon enough.

Go Cats.