NBA Rumors: Greg Oden Gives His Take On Busted NBA Career

KEY POINTS

Oden feels bust is a strong word
Oden points to injuries as the reason to his bust NBA career
Oden prefers to remember himself as a good basketball player

Greg Oden knows that expectations were high on him when he entered the NBA back in 2007. As most know, he was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers ahead of Kevin Durant that year. Injuries have held back the 7-footer and Oden was simply unable to get on track.

The Blazers eventually gave up on him in 2012 but the Miami Heat took a chance but he managed to play only 23 games during the 2013-14 season. In his career, Oden was only able to play a total of 105 games with forgettable numbers, per Baskteball-Reference.com. Eventually, that led to most branding him as one of the biggest NBA busts but the 32-year-old big man does not necessarily see it that way.

In an interview with Hoops Hype, he prefers to see it differently. He sees the term "bust" differently, reasoning that things just did not work out for him. He still holds on to memories where he was a good basketball player back in the day. It could be a case of bad luck but Oden may not have control on what critics have.

“Funny story about that word “bust”: If you go to YouTube and type in “Greg Oden highlight video,” the best one is actually the one titled “Greg Oden: A Bust?” Go watch that. I’ve watched it. I actually watch it a lot, it makes me feel good about myself! (laughs),” Oden shared.

The injury bug undeniably scorned the plight of Oden. However, he could have done necessary adjustments as most NBA players do these days. That included following a certain diet or adjusting his style of play. Unfortunately, nothing of the like was reported and now Oden consoles himself as an NBA analyst.

At only 32, there is no doubt that Oden could have done something to still be in the NBA. He may have not been the foreseen dominant big guy most were expecting but could have helped. One thing in the NBA is that big men last longer since height cannot be taught. Though still not out of shape, Oden could still play the game if he wanted to at this stage. All he needs to do is adjust to the level where his body can adapt.