When analyst and fans talk about Greg Oden, he is often referred to as the guy drafted ahead of Kevin Durant. He is considered a bust and a large disappointment overall. Oden was failed by his body and constant injuries during his NBA career. However, in Oden’s one year in college a case can be made that he is one of the best players of the past 20 years.
Oden didn’t make his debut until the eighth game of the season due to a lingering injury. From the first game Oden played his impact was immediate. His presence around the rim, shot blocking ability and rebounding were the best in the country. Ohio State entered the NCAA tournament with a record of 30-3. Oden is well remembered for his play during the 2007 tourney. One infamous play is his amazing block to secure the win against Tennessee in the sweet 16. Probably Oden’s most impressive performance came in a losing effort in the 2007 championship game. The buckeyes were against defending champ Florida, and future NBA all-stars Al Horford and Joakim Noah. Oden completely dominated both players and single handily almost won the title. If there is one thing readers should take away from this it’s that Oden was not a bust.
The Big Dance 