Does Oscar Tshiebwe Have Any College Eligibility Left? Breaking Down the Former Kentucky Star’s NCAA Status.
When fans ask whether Oscar Tshiebwe has any remaining college eligibility, the short answer is no.
Tshiebwe began his collegiate career at West Virginia University in 2019, where he quickly established himself as one of the most dominant rebounders in the country. After two seasons with the Mountaineers, he transferred to University of Kentucky, a move that elevated him to national prominence.
During the 2021–22 season at Kentucky, Tshiebwe delivered one of the most impressive individual campaigns in recent college basketball history. He averaged a double-double and swept nearly every major national player of the year award, including the prestigious Naismith College Player of the Year honor. His relentless rebounding, physical presence, and consistency made him the centerpiece of the Wildcats’ success.
Thanks to the NCAA’s COVID-19 eligibility relief, many athletes were granted an additional year. Tshiebwe utilized that extra season in 2022–23, returning to Kentucky for what became his final year of college basketball. By the end of that season, he had exhausted his eligibility under NCAA rules.
Following his college career, Tshiebwe declared for the NBA Draft and began pursuing professional opportunities, officially closing the chapter on his time in the NCAA. Once a player declares and completes their eligibility — particularly after playing four full seasons (including a COVID year) — there are no remaining college years available.
So, while fans may wish to see him dominate the boards in Lexington once more, Oscar Tshiebwe’s college career is complete. His legacy, however, remains firmly intact as one of the most productive and decorated big men in recent NCAA history.
