Otega Oweh delivered an unforgettable moment in Kentucky basketball history with his thunderous one-handed jam in the second half against Texas A&M. The electrifying play, which brought the Rupp Arena crowd to its feet, has fans asking: where does this dunk rank among the program’s greatest?
Here’s how Oweh’s slam compares to some of Kentucky’s most iconic dunks:
1. Dirk Minnifield – The Blueprint
40 years ago today: Dirk Minniefield of Kentucky nearly jumps out of Rupp Arena for a dunk against Mississippi State.
— NBA Cobwebs (@NBACobwebs) February 8, 2023
Wildcats 88, Bulldogs 67
February 8, 1983. pic.twitter.com/wVWcYHdS41
Dirk Minnifield’s dunk, which shares striking similarities with Oweh’s, remains the gold standard for high-flying finishes. Known for his hang time and finesse, Minnifield’s jam set the precedent for powerful, crowd-igniting slams at Kentucky.
2. Otega Oweh – A Rising Legend
OTEGA OWEH ON HIS HEAD 😤 pic.twitter.com/GyyrK9mCd6
— ESPN (@espn) January 15, 2025
Oweh’s dunk against Texas A&M was a moment of raw power and athleticism. Driving through traffic, he elevated and unleashed a one-handed hammer that will be replayed for years to come. Its similarity to Minnifield’s dunk puts it near the top of the list and cements Oweh’s place in Kentucky lore.
3. Derek Anderson vs. Louisville
Derek Anderson DUNK! #louisvilleHateWeek pic.twitter.com/7x8HM9Vc2V
— s t e w (@Cats4life_1) December 27, 2013
Derek Anderson’s soaring slam against archrival Louisville was a highlight of his standout career. The combination of intensity and rivalry stakes gives this dunk lasting significance.
4. James Young vs. UConn
James Young dunking on UConn in 2014 💥 pic.twitter.com/S6y1C5TSBE
— Fastbreak Hoops (@FastbreakHoops5) October 22, 2024
In the 2014 NCAA Championship game, James Young threw down a monstrous dunk against UConn that embodied the grit and determination of that Kentucky team. Despite the loss, the dunk is etched in fans’ memories. as a must see play.
5. Willie Cauley-Stein vs. Florida
One of the nastiest dunks in Kentucky history!
— Ballislife.com (@Ballislife) August 18, 2020
HBD @THEwillieCS15
pic.twitter.com/A6ptLJ4Bfq
Known for his defensive prowess, Willie Cauley-Stein turned heads with a stunning dunk over Florida, showcasing his athleticism and ability to dominate on both ends of the court.
Otega Oweh’s jam already stands tall among these iconic moments. While the debate over the “greatest dunk” will continue, one thing is certain: Oweh’s slam against Texas A&M is an instant classic and a testament to the excitement of Kentucky basketball.
What do you think? Does Oweh’s dunk take the crown, or does Minnifield still reign supreme?