Overview
Onyenso spent two years at Kentucky where he went from being a non-factor as a freshman to becoming a solid contributor during his sophomore year. He didn’t start in any of his 16 appearances during his freshman year with the Wildcats and averaged a mere 2.5 points across 6.9 minutes per game. He moved into a more prominent role as a sophomore and started in 14 of his 24 appearances, but the statistical uptick wasn’t eye-popping. He averaged 3.6 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.8 blocks across 18.8 minutes per game in his second year with the program. But notably, his 66 blocks ranked third in the SEC during the 2023-24 season.
Analysis
Onyenso might be raw, but he is young enough to intrigue scouts with his potential despite being not nearly as advanced as some other prospects in the upcoming draft. Onyenso re-classified in high school and will be 19 for the 2024 NBA Draft despite having played two college seasons. His minutes were limited in his two years with the Wildcats, and he hasn’t been able to show much of an offensive skill set. But in a worst-case scenario, he can make a living from putbacks and lobs due to his length. The defensive upside is tremendous for Onyenso, projecting to be an elite rim protector and a monster on the defensive glass. However, how much he can develop on offense will ultimately determine the kind of career he’ll have at the next level. If he can develop a consistent jumper or decent post-up game, Onyenso could be a two-way threat with the potential to be among the best blockers and rim protectors in the NBA by the time he reaches his prime. If not, he’ll likely become a situational defensive player who’ll make a living out of his defense.
Projection
It’s hard to imagine a future role for Onyenso at the next level without him spending at least a year or two in development – possibly the G League. His minutes were limited in Kentucky, and while he showed defensive prowess, his offensive game is multiple steps behind. He figures to be a big man who can excel as a backup and rim protector eventually, but right now, he’s a raw prospect who’ll need time before being ready to play consistently at the NBA level. If his offensive game doesn’t progress, he may have a career like Bismack Biyombo or Nerlens Noel.
— Profile by RotoWire