What Happened to Oscar Tshiebwe? Latest Updates on the Basketball Star

By Edcel Panganiban June 30, 2025 08:35

Oscar Tshiebwe, the Congolese-born basketball talent known for his dominant rebounding and physical presence, has been steadily making his mark in professional basketball after a standout college career. As of mid-2025, Tshiebwe is carving out a role with the Utah Jazz in the NBA while also continuing to showcase his skills in the NBA G League with the Salt Lake City Stars. Here’s a comprehensive update on what has happened to the basketball star and where his career stands today.

Tshiebwe’s journey began in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where he initially played soccer before switching to basketball due to his height advantage. After moving to the United States in 2015, he quickly rose through the high school ranks, earning accolades such as Pennsylvania Gatorade Player of the Year and competing in the McDonald’s All-American Game. He committed to West Virginia before transferring to Kentucky, where he was named the unanimous Southeastern Conference Player of the Year and Sporting News National Player of the Year in 2022.

Despite his college dominance, Tshiebwe went undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft, a surprising outcome given his rebounding prowess and physicality. Undeterred, he signed a two-way contract with the Indiana Pacers and split time with their G League affiliate, the Indiana Mad Ants. There, he excelled by setting the NBA G League single-season rebounding record with an average of 16.2 rebounds per game and earning the 2024 NBA G League Rookie of the Year award. His 2023-24 season featured 27 double-doubles and multiple 20-plus rebound games, highlighting his relentless work on the glass.

In August 2024, Tshiebwe signed a two-way contract with the Utah Jazz, marking a new chapter in his NBA career. During the 2024-25 NBA season, he appeared in 8 games, averaging 5.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 0.6 assists, and 0.8 steals per contest. On March 28, 2025, he made his first career NBA start, contributing 7 points, 10 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal in a loss to the Denver Nuggets. His field goal percentage remains impressive, shooting over 80% on two-point attempts, demonstrating efficient scoring around the basket.

While Tshiebwe’s NBA minutes have been limited, his G League performance continues to impress. Over 33 games with the Salt Lake City Stars, he averaged 15.4 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game, showcasing his defensive impact and rebounding dominance. His ability to control the paint and secure possessions remains his calling card.

Oscar’s transition from college star to professional role player reflects the challenges many dominant collegiate big men face adjusting to the NBA’s speed and skill level. However, his relentless rebounding and physicality have earned him respect among coaches and teammates. Utah Jazz coach Will Hardy recently praised Tshiebwe’s work ethic, saying, “Oscar brings energy and toughness every time he steps on the floor. His rebounding is elite, and he’s learning how to impact the game in multiple ways.”

Looking ahead, Tshiebwe’s focus is on earning more consistent NBA minutes and expanding his skill set, particularly in passing and defensive versatility. His two-way contract allows him to develop in the G League while being available for NBA call-ups, a path many young players take before securing a full-time roster spot.

In summary, Oscar Tshiebwe’s story is one of perseverance and adaptation. From a late draft pick to G League standout and emerging NBA contributor, he continues to build his professional career steadily. With his rebounding prowess and improving all-around game, Tshiebwe remains a player to watch as he seeks to establish himself as a valuable asset for the Utah Jazz and beyond.