It Wasn't My Fault

This is one of the most tragic stories that I have ever witnessed and wrote about in sports. Greg Oden a native of Buffalo, New York had a bright future ahead of him. A man with such girth and height at a young age, you just knew he was destined for greatness. Oden was the 2007 number one overall draft pick for the Portland Trailblazers. His career at this time is at a constant standstill because of his ailing knees. Through his 5 year career, Oden has played only 82 games. I think that when Oden came into the N.B.A. he didn’t see these injuries coming. Oden couldn’t help it and really feel for this man. I think he wanted and still wants to get back on the court, but if your body is saying no; it means no people.

When he was drafted I was like whoa, he is going to be the next dominant center in our time but he was dealt a different hand. Many fans, sports stations and magazines label Oden as a bust. My thing is how you can name someone a bust that never got the chance to play the game. A bust is someone that is healthy and they can’t get the job done like a Kwame Brown. We all know this man, “The Notorious Thief of the N.B.A.” that stole from the league legally throughout is disastrous career. Usually I don’t feel sorry for players because they are rich and spoiled, but in this situation how can you not? Everything in sports is a business, but after sports this man still has to have his health and be able to walk. Do I think that Oden will get past his injuries and finally play basketball? Hmm, I can’t call it, but I highly doubt it.

I think that Oden will retire after this coming season and walk away. Not just because of his injuries, but from the embarrassment of not panning out and the shame he faces. As I’m writing this I’m shaking my head because he was a player that I wanted to see what he had to offer the league and the sports world. Being 7 feet tall and a dominant force on defense is a great gift, but I guess the league wasn’t his true calling. I hope the best for Greg and want to see him overcome these obstacles and get back on the court, but your health comes first! Guys, tell me what you truly think about Greg Oden and all of these setbacks?