**BREAKING: Ortega Oweh Drafted by Los Angeles Lakers in Shocking NBA Draft Move**
In a stunning and unexpected development during the 2025 NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers selected forward Ortega Oweh, sending shockwaves through the basketball world and igniting a flurry of reaction across social media and sports networks.
Projected by most analysts as a mid-to-late second-round pick—or even an undrafted free agent—Oweh vaulted into the spotlight when the Lakers used their late first-round pick (No. 28 overall) to snag the athletic 6-foot-7 forward. The pick came as a surprise to many draft insiders, who had not seen Oweh appear in most major mock drafts’ first rounds.
**Lakers Betting on Raw Potential**
Oweh, a versatile wing from Seton Hall, turned heads during the latter half of his sophomore season with explosive athleticism, defensive tenacity, and flashes of perimeter scoring. Despite averaging modest stats—8.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game—his elite combine showing and strong individual workouts with several teams, including the Lakers, helped boost his stock behind closed doors.
“He’s a freak athlete with a tremendous motor,” said Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka in a post-draft press conference. “We see Ortega as a long-term investment—he’s got the tools to develop into a lockdown defender and slasher in today’s NBA.”
**Oweh Reacts to Dream Come True**
Clearly emotional after hearing his name called, Oweh hugged family members and wiped away tears before addressing ESPN’s Malika Andrews on stage.
> “Man… this is surreal. I’ve been doubted my whole life. To be called up by the Lakers, one of the greatest franchises ever? I’m ready to work. I’m ready to prove everybody wrong,” Oweh said.
ESPN’s Jay Bilas called the move “a reach with upside,” noting Oweh’s defensive ceiling but citing concerns over his shooting and consistency. Meanwhile, Lakers star LeBron James reportedly texted Oweh a welcome message minutes after the pick, signaling early support from the team’s veteran core.
**Next Steps**
Oweh is expected to join the Lakers’ Summer League squad in July, where fans will get their first extended look at the surprise pick in action. While his path to the main rotation will be competitive, the Lakers clearly see him as a project worth developing in a league increasingly driven by length, athleticism, and defensive versatility.
One thing is certain—Ortega Oweh’s NBA journey is off to a
headline-grabbing start.