In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the world of college basketball, five-star forward Otega Oweh has made the surprising decision to turn down an eye-popping $50 million NIL offer from both the University of Georgia and Auburn University.
Instead, Oweh has opted to remain committed to the University of South Carolina, where he has been playing for the Gamecocks.
The 6’7″ forward, widely regarded as one of the most highly sought-after recruits in the nation, has been a standout for South Carolina since joining the team. His decision to reject such a lucrative offer—one that would have made him one of the highest-paid college athletes in history—has raised eyebrows across the college basketball landscape.
Sources close to Oweh suggest that while the financial incentive was tempting, his loyalty to South Carolina played a pivotal role in his decision. “I have no plans beyond the Gamecocks,” Oweh stated in a brief but powerful statement. “I came here to compete, grow, and help this program reach new heights. The Gamecocks have supported me since day one, and I’m excited to continue my journey with them.”
Oweh’s decision is a major victory for South Carolina, which has been working tirelessly to build a championship-caliber team around him. His commitment to the Gamecocks solidifies their status as a team to watch in the upcoming season and sends a message to recruits and college basketball fans alike: loyalty to one’s program and teammates still holds value in the age of NIL deals and big-money offers.
The rejected $50 million NIL package, offered jointly by Georgia and Auburn, was reportedly one of the most lucrative college offers in recent memory. Both schools had aggressively pursued Oweh, offering a combination of cash, endorsement deals, and future opportunities that would have set him up for long-term financial success. However, Oweh’s decision to turn down the money speaks volumes about his character and commitment to the Gamecocks.
This is a big moment in college basketball,” said a source close to the situation. “Otega’s decision to stay true to his word, and remain with a program that believes in him, will undoubtedly influence how future recruits view the balance between NIL money and program loyalty. It’s a reminder that basketball isn’t just about money—it’s about passion, legacy, and personal growth.”
For South Carolina, Oweh’s decision provides a huge boost as they look to compete for a spot in the NCAA Tournament in the coming seasons. The Gamecocks have been working hard to build a competitive squad, and with Oweh’s talents in their lineup, they will likely be one of the teams to watch in the SEC.
