First Full Game

Tonight i played my first full game in the NBA, we played the Miami Heat. All i can say is that we came out wiith a victory. So that was a big thing for me having us win my first game back. I wouldnt say i had the best contribution on the floor, i didnt play, score, or rebound that much. I only played like 16 minutes with 3 points and 2 rebounds, not a good individual game. All i can do is go out there the next game with a more aggressive attitude out there on the court. Right now im still trying to come in and get use to playing with these guy who have been playing for a couple of games already, i got to catch up.

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Miami Heat
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Comments (93)

mvbuckeye01 said November 13, 2008

I think the Blazers will really hit their stride as the season goes on. Blending your inside game with what Roy, Aldridge, and even Rudy Fernandez will take time, but will be very potent mix.

Keep it up. Also great dance moves in your other season promo.
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- Irishjeff replied November 13, 2008
  
  Irishjeff here,
  Hey Greg you look really good out on the court last night. All I can say that you need is your wind and your legs back. In practice run the court to get your wind back. It will take some weeks(look at shaq and how long it takes him each season). Run, run, run and it will all fall into place. I have no doubt how dominate you will be! One day at a time and it will just happen. Don't sweat the small stuff, just play your game. Welcome back to the Garden of Oden. Just sayin'...
Leven_Goo said November 13, 2008

Man!Step by Step. One by One. MJ said the reason why I can get 30 point per game that it is I gain 8 point per time.Show us your power

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rickdawg said November 13, 2008

Hey Greg, its just good to see you in a Blazer uniform out on that floor. Like you said, it doesnt matter if your stats are pretty or if your game was pretty, all that matters is that the final score has the Blazers with the most points. All I can say is dont worry about catching up to the other guys, your game will come back to you with repition. You just gotta let the offense come to you, and trash people in the lane on the defensive end. You guys got plenty of scorers so really all you gotta do is clean up their garbage and make us look pretty (see how it all kind of revolves back to the pretty thing, kinda weird sorry). Just glad to see you out on the court man, take care and good luck against New Orleans. Oh and one more thing, take some of Chris Paul's alley-oops to Tyson Chandler out of the air woulda ya :) Peace
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rnpeters said November 13, 2008

Greg don't worry about the stats, they'll come soon. I watched the game, and you looked dominant the first 5-10 minutes, but then you looked a little tired after that. Once you get into better game shape, look out
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Latinferno said November 13, 2008

Definitely looking foward to you getting back in the line up. I watched the game last night and you did all you could (for the limited amount of time the coach let u play). But don't fret, it's better to ease back into the line-up, than to hurry back and re-injure yourself. Too many times athletes are pressured to "get back in there" and perform when they aren't totally healthy. I'd rather have you be healthy and not hurry back than to rip down 20 boards and 5 blocks, only to get hurt doing it. Looking forward to a dominating performance/season. I have you and a few other Blazers on my fantasy team (LaMarcus and Rudy) and can't wait for the chemistry to mesh. Hope your ankle is feeling o.k. and you rock this week!
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drewmn11 said November 13, 2008

Hey Greg, dont worry too much about it, it is a long season ahead. The main thing is that you guys got the W, its going to take some time to feel comfortable again. Cant wait until we see you like you played at Ohio State. BTW, how was it playing against Daequan again? Keep working at it and you will do fine. Cant wait for Friday. Good luck man.
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SnitchinBubs said November 13, 2008

I wouldn't have thought of myself as a huge fan, but I got chills when I saw you pull down that offensive rebound and slam it away for your first bucket. Best of luck with the rest of the season.
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- erikpdx replied November 14, 2008
  
  Chills for me too...that was just a glimpse of what's ahead. Good luck against NO tomorrow GO.
rhameeth said November 13, 2008

Hey man ... Just have fun with it. You'll do great this year!
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ekimswish said November 13, 2008

But what a great rebound and dunk! You gotta love that at least..
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DRAFTODEN said November 13, 2008

its gonna take you a few weeks to hit your stride and get comfortable out there. I was just happy to see you running and jumping out there. I know the real greg oden will be back once you get used to playing again.
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saregister said November 13, 2008

greg, my man, dont worry about the stats. you had a great game back! the second you came in they were scared to enter the lane and you altered every shot they threw up. those are the little things and thats what we nees you for. the rebounds, blocks and points will come when you get your wind! good game man, keep up the great work and keep your chin up!
the ESPN crew broadcasting the game said they think you are going 2 be a multiple tme defensive player of the year from what they saw, so you were doing something right!
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richardb said November 13, 2008

What you can say is you drew a double team every single time you had the ball in your hands. Not bad for a rookie :) Congrats on the win nonetheless.
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tedhill said November 13, 2008

Greg, I watched you last night, I'm a big Heat fan so I'm sorry to say I wasn't happy you guys claimed the victory but it was a good game and you looked solid. Just do what you do and things will fall in place. How was your lunch with Daeuqan the other day?
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BigRandy said November 13, 2008

It's all gravy big man. Getchya legs and stamina back and you'll be a beast in no time. Nice blocks by the way. GO BLAZERS!!!!!
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KeeganJM said November 13, 2008

Still man, you got to play your first real NBA game. It will come, and in the words of the Big Aerostadle you will reach Shogun status soon.
But wins are what it is about man, wins, wins, wins, dont worry about the stats, dont force it, rebound and block, we want that. Defense, we are fine already with offense.
Other then that, I love seeing you on the court, keep up the great work man.
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UNC23Tarheels said November 13, 2008

Greg just take it easy and allow yourself to get into the flow of the game you know what your capable of,So don't even trip Big Guy,you'll be fine good win last night too..
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Dewey said November 13, 2008

Congrats, G.O.
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rooody said November 13, 2008

It was real good to see you back out there man, I'm sure it must have felt great! Keep playing hard and take it one game at a time..everyone is pullin for you!

p.s. Rudy is the truth!
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bryantpark said November 13, 2008

don't worry about other peoples' expectations, greg. you're progressing just as you should. after a couple of games under your belt, and once you get used to the speed of nba play, you'll be out there dominating. great block on your former teammate DQ.
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jrizya said November 13, 2008

Hey Greg, congrats on finally getting a full game under your belt. I'm a Blazer fan from way back that now lives in New Zealand. I've been following your story since day one and you seem like a great guy and I am truly happy that you're a part of the new Blazer generation. Take care of yourself and enjoy the experience.
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bazdrak said November 13, 2008

yo greg man i saw the game back here in Portland and the Marathon bar on Burnside was cheerin' for you bro.
Enjoy the (hopefully) less stressful time coming off the bench to learn and just get your feet wet man. You'll be kickin ass soon bro. Just have some fun and enjoy being in the NBA (even though its probably f'in crazier than any of us can imagine...both good and bad ways). Keep yer head up and pop some ppl in the mouth mang!
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cokeindo said November 13, 2008

It's alright Greg, we all know you'll step in and find your groove. I picked you early for my fantasy team because you'll have a great season!
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fantasy said November 13, 2008

Hey Greg,I am come from china,I love blazers ten years ago,I am very happy to see this team Step by Step rise up !
so i wish the team play good basketball and keep health....
Go blazers!!! Go rip city!!!
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fantasy said November 13, 2008

Hey Greg,I come from china,I love this team ten years ago,I am very happy to see the team Step by Step rise up,
so i hope the team can play basketball very well and keep healthy!!!!we belong together.....
Go blazers!!!
GO Rip CITY!!!!
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WillG027 said November 13, 2008

Hey Greg
Wanted to say congrats on the game, its good to see you feature in your first proper game.
And its just that, your first game, so don't worry big fella, once your back in game shape, the fire will re-ignite and then you'll be having FUN on the court, toying with the other bigs in the NBA.
Thanks for being a down to earth guy, and for the commitment you've shown to us fans of basketball.
All the best.
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BuckeyeFanatic said November 13, 2008

Was nice seeing you back in action Greg ... keep working hard - there will be a long adjustment period! Before you know it things will be back to less of an effort and more back to just playing basketball.
I always wondered ... after you block Cook like you did - do you give him a hard time during or after the gameat all? Or is it all business now with your former teammate??
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footballonly said November 13, 2008

Good job greg, just focus on team and the points and boards will come! You are one of the great down to earth guys in the NBA!
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blzrnut said November 13, 2008

Congrats!!! It was amazing to see you out there last night! You're probably sick of hearing this, but stats will come back in time. don't expect too much too soon, just be yourself and let it all flow back into place. Good luck in New Orleans!
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Lakerhater said November 13, 2008

Nice Greg its all about the wins you just being out on the floor makes a huge difference!! You had a couple nice blocks. Just keep at it and it will all come together!! GO BLAZERS STING THE HORNETS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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josephE said November 13, 2008

It was great to see you on the floor, Greg. It really was. You'll catch your rhythm as you get more games under your belt. You're lucky to be a member of a good, up and coming team that is incredibly deep and can win games, so you don't have to force things. Just enjoy your time on the floor and let your game come to you. A successful career is not defined by a rookie season.
Nice block in the first quarter, by the way!
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digitaldaggers said November 13, 2008

you'll catch up.

then you'll bang on some fools. :)
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blazermarsh said November 13, 2008

You did fine, Greg. We all know you are going to be great - but it is going to take some time for you to improve with the team. Just keep trying hard and having fun! You've got a great team (with great guys) around you ... just go with the flow, big guy! Portland is totally behind you!
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Lovinthegame said November 13, 2008

I was sooo happy to see you score your FIRST NBA goal. Congratulations! You're so much fun to watch. I have no doubt you'll be a dominator this year. :)
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IrishFan67 said November 13, 2008

Greg,
Great to see you on the court. You will get to where you want to be, just give yourself time to adjust. It is a LONG season. Keep up the great work, it is a pleasure to watch you play!
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wagonmaster said November 13, 2008

Hi Greg, I'm like your biggest fan (honest, man), although I don't pull punches by just feeding you all the automatic worship crap like so many here.

Your hands were way better last night. When you snatched the rebound and followed immediately with an explosive dunk your power was undeniable.

Integration is the key. A few more times on the floor and you will attain the 'memory' your body had when you were playing a lot. Add a few tough games to that and you yourself will begin to integrate your newest skills.

I think you are really going to be surprised with how really great you guys can be, and soon.

-- Best regards
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azgiants17 said November 13, 2008

Your the man just rock it out next game
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kdsparky said November 13, 2008

Don't worry about stats. Just your presence on the court makes a huge difference!
P.S. I just got a new puppy and named him Oden. He's a 10 week old Weimaraner and he was the biggest boy in the litter!
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danbfree said November 13, 2008

Just the start of lots of good things to come for you and the Blazers, Greg! I know you swam a lot for your rehab but just keep banging away, man, and you will be in game shape in no time!
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manyoso said November 13, 2008

Greg, I'm a long time Blazer fan from way back in the Clyde Drexler days. I stopped following the team as a result of the late 90's early 00's era, but your blog and story have brought me back to watchin' my first full Blazer game in a long time.
I have to say, I really miss the black uniforms. However, it was extremely great to see your first game and to watch this young team. I really enjoyed it. Thanks for bringing back this old time fan!
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Blazersrock said November 13, 2008

Nice job last night! Just having you in the line up is a blessing...It was awesome....when you were at the desk to check in the first time...you shoulda seen the faces of the Heat players! It was funny :) Like....uh oh...whose gonna check HIM! Nice block ....with your armpit! ....and the putback dunk was A-mazing....One game at a time...1 win at a time...1 Dunk at a time, 1 Block at a time...
Peace Out!
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donchichi222 said November 13, 2008

great win for the Blazers. However, you and the Blazers still have a long way to go. Keep practicing. Practice? Talk about practice?
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ColinDoyle said November 13, 2008

Keep it up Greg.

Colin #7
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Breakin said November 13, 2008

Take your time man. You'll be fine. Seriously might want to do some jumping exercises though. You're not getting far enough off the ground (yet). Those first two points you had, the ball skimmed the rim. Can't have that. and Greg...TWO HANDS! www.breakindownthegame.com
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wkp2101 said November 13, 2008

Do you realize you are the most unstoppable, unfair, dominant player in NBA 2k8? My friend and I would do franchises together against eachother and basically whoever got "The Ode Dog" would end up dominating every aspect of the game. You would just crossover, crossover, slamma jamma in the lane. Then on D it would be swat after swat and rebound after rebound. Don't worry about not getting too much playing time in real life, you are a BEAST in NBA 2k8.
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ducklaw said November 13, 2008

Good to see you out there Greg. I think you blocked that shot with your chest :) It was good to finally see you in action. D-FENSE! Glad you're a Blazer.
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BlazerWookee said November 13, 2008

Go get 'em, Big Guy. It'll come to you. I can't wait to cheer for you in the Rose Garden!

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StorminOrman said November 13, 2008

Have fun dude. Our expectations in Portland are that you continuously improve and rep the City in a positive way (which you have already done). We don't expect you to carry this TEAM- we want you to contribute and be healthy. This is a GREAT TEAM with lots of weapons. You are another weapon! Adding you is FUN for the fans and your teammates! Hear me? HAVE FUNNNNNNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!!!!
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jus10gee said November 13, 2008

Congrats, Greg... You definitely looked better in this game, than your last outing.

Keep working on your footwork and in a couple of seasons, you'll be a dominant player in this league.
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HandsomeRob said November 13, 2008

Go Blue!
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toonsquad23 said November 13, 2008

Greg, everything is going to be fine. Just keep working hard in practice and take the intensity from the practice onto the game floor. You're already a force out there, even if you only add 3 pts in 16 min. Great job bro. God Bless.
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syncswim said November 13, 2008

it's all about PATIENCE! it'll come to you, you'll be eating them up and spitting them out in no time.
congrats on getting in and getting out safely, there will be plenty more to come.
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yubaduck said November 13, 2008

Don't know if you read these comments or not, but to me, your blocks on defense were huge, and the way people had to adjust coming into the lane while you there is exactly the thing Portland lacks, a powerful defensive inside presence. The conditioning will improve, the knowing rotations and where to be will improve, the offense will improve, the stats will come as the season goes on. The skills you have and the strength are irreplaceable and will make you a vital part of the team that will bring a title back to Portland. Keep your head up and know a whole state and a lot of Oregonians who have moved elsewhere (like me in Sacramento) are glad to see you out there and look forward to seeing your game progress.
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derrickvee said November 13, 2008

Greg- Keep giving it your all. Know that there are fans out there who really want you to succeed just for your sake, we're pulling hard for you. But if things don't go as planned on the court, I will still have your back and be a fan because you seem like such a decent human being. Be you, have fun and best of luck.
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derrickvee said November 13, 2008

greg- keep giving it your all. know that there are fans out here who really want you to succeed just for your sake. even if things don't go as planned on the court, i'll still be a fan because you seem like such a decent human. be you, play hard and have fun out there.
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budmuth said November 13, 2008

Nice job G.O.!!! You are awesome!
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trailmiZer said November 13, 2008

Hey Greg,
life is a longer journey than it is a shorter one. you are already ahead of where so many ever make it in their entire lives. this year focus on learning and growing you know the drill. have fun. rome wasn't built in a day and it wasn't always pretty, but in the end after all the work it was rome. you will build an empire and rule the NBA world all the pieces are there and you are the center, but every piece in this puzzle still needs to grow and become great, not just GO. give it time, give it time.
best
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GOBLAZERS said November 13, 2008

Greg,
As a 31-year Blazer fan (other than losing interest during the JailBlazer years due to such selfish players), It's awesome to have you as a Blazer. It is great to have such dominating players as yourself, that are down-to-earth and thoughtful of others. You guys keep that "team" and "community" attitude and even though you win multiple championships over the next several years, we'll still be proud of our team!!! GO!
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DNodes said November 13, 2008

The offensive rebound you followed with that dunk down low... Monstrous. My roommate and I must have rewound that like ten times. Can't wait to get my Oden jersey... Debating over black or red.
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Celtisfan101 said November 13, 2008

This is great for the T-blazers maybe they'll make the playoffs. With skill like B-roy and Oden its possible
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jacksgrapes said November 13, 2008

I've been following you since college
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bM3DEzRNnA http://cache.deadspin.com/assets/images/deadspin/2008/08/oden.jpg
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- jacksgrapes replied November 14, 2008
  
  I dunno wtf happened here... half my comment disappeared
  
  basically i was saying (keeping it short) i've been following you since college and i dont care if you averaged 3/2 for a career, you'd still be my favorite player. Keep being goofy, and doing shit with kids!
itsadaoj said November 13, 2008

Like everyone says my man. Lighten up. You look so worried on the bench and on the court, a little befuddled like this is a game you haven't played all your life, and done so well in all your life. Just get out there and play your game. You can't make the hall of fame in one game. Good to see you out there though.
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Trunkadunka said November 14, 2008

Greg my dude you're going to be a BEAST. Once you get your strength and stamina back up to 100% i want to see a highlight of you on sportscenters Top 10 plays nightly.
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jetcitypersian said November 14, 2008

I'm psyched that you're back early - that dunk was vicious. The team looks great, and you're just going to make it better. Looking forward to seeing more.
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HayatoKanzaki1 said November 14, 2008

Good Game Greg. Hope to see more!
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netbjorn said November 14, 2008

GEE-O, loosen up, be cool and have some fun out there. Your still taking things way to seriously, Basketball is a game and youÂ´ll get better results when you just enjoy it.
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swiftlyjenkins said November 14, 2008

Its all good. Before you know it you'll feel relaxed out there and the game will start to slow down. It looks like youre just tryin to find your groove out there, but that comes with playing. I can't wait to see 15-30 games from now.
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superjb said November 14, 2008

just have fun Oden! Sure youv'e got some learning but hey you cant play if your so seriously. Just play the game you love. It will come to you if you just keep playin YOUR game! keep ROCKIN Oden!
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flyingoutlaw said November 14, 2008

Super way bigtime major totally good to see you on the court. Man oh man, it must have felt good to get even 16 minutes of run. Keep it up, the team needs you angry and the World needs you in a good mood. Can you be both?
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Bdobs8765 said November 14, 2008

I know everyone in following you always focuses on your injuries. Just get out there and focus on doing your thing. Don't worry about your ankle. Or your knee. Or your wrist. Or your foot. Just play your game. Knee.
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llorie05 said November 14, 2008

Greg, your going to be a great player in this league, you just got to go out there and play, injoy it and don't let the media or fans get you down.....it will come...you just need to take it easy and let the game come to you and do what you know how to do....i know you love to game, so just get out there and have fun and don't feel your the savior of the team......your going to be just fine, big guy....just go out there and have fun and it will come sooner then you think GO BLAZERS and GO!
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Carlton1025 said November 14, 2008

Greg, keep doing your thing man.
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pdgwhof said November 14, 2008

Greg, Just play the game man...dont let the bright lights and others expectations get in your head...play the game you love, and scare the guys you play with your intensity...and smile at the cameras when they are on :-)
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VanKings said November 14, 2008

Hey Greg, your young and will be outstanding, I notice when you have the ball in the post the other team swarm in to double/triple team you, you still try to force your way to the basket, if you pass out of it to the outside teammates and they nail there shots the double/triple team's will stop and then you will dominate.

BTW stop with the little injuries and play through them, your killing my fantasy teams, lol.
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FrmDaMotherlnd said November 16, 2008

You're doing great. I can't wait to see you play our next 3 opponents (GS,CHI,SAC) considering their bigs are softies. Just go out and do your thing and make us proud.
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nwjuggalo said November 17, 2008

You're coming along nicely, GO. I can't wait to see you against Shaq in Pheonix on November 22nd!
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MTitty34 said November 19, 2008

Greg,
You really should inform the Yardbarker crew that by not picking up my blog, they are missing out on some serious entertainment. I'm willing to negotiate a deal at anytime. Let me know.
Mark "The Shark" Titus

http://www.clubtrillion.blogspot.com
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pdx_love said November 19, 2008

Greg, you look great! Way to get to the rim.
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l22willits said November 20, 2008

Greg,
Me and Fletch think that you should get a mohawk. We also think you should leave the beard. You WILL look badass. You should seriously consider this.
Logan Willits
look me up on myspace/ or facebook
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mefnikk said November 20, 2008

You keep dropping double doubles and no team is gonna contend. 6 players in double figures last night and completely dismantled the bulls.
Oh and tell Joel sorry that the yotches at Henry's wouldnt let him in. We tried to get the door for him. Pz
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PaniCGM said November 20, 2008

Yo Greg I got to see you live for the first time in the blow out last night against Chicago. I know you are anxious, but don't worry bro It will all come together. I love your energy on the floor. Your presense changes how the opponent plays. That should tell you that the other coaches and players are aware of your capabilities. Don't rush too much, It will all come to you. I love that you can shoot the freethrow. Your time is a coming. I noticed that you play above the rim on defense and mostley below the rim on offense. I know you have coaches but you may want to think on that. You go man. Don't let anyone tell you that you can't do it in anything in life. YOU CAN!!!! Good luck
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donchichi222 said November 20, 2008

those were crazy blocks you got on T. Thomas.
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superjb said November 21, 2008

i can see quad doubles soon
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Rosecity07 said November 25, 2008

Keep working hard Greg. Keep a good diet and work on your stamina. Let the game come to you.
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jukelike20 said November 25, 2008

If you actually read this.. you don't look anything like you did on defense in Ohio State. For a couple games you showed glimpses of dominating the paint area but you look too unsure of when to come out and try and defend the perimeter. I think a lot of players have hit open jumpers with your hand in their face and it might be messing with you head. They are just getting lucky, don't stress too much about getting up on them. It is leaving you out of position to dominate the basket area on defense. You are trying to stay with dribblers who are slashing, and you are body checking them hoping to slow them down when most likely it will be called a foul. You need to try and back off and shadow behind or next to them and swat when they go up. Instead, you seem to be a full step behind guys you should be pinning against the backboard because you came too far out, or weren't expecting that hesitation blow-by move. Stay light and be more ready to go back to the basket on defense instead of coming out.. You have to stay with your strengths...
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DRAFTODEN said November 26, 2008

greg would you please chill the f out and have some fun LOL!!!!! I have seen you play since lawrence north and I miss the fun loving GO blowing kisses to the crowd. You seem so pressured and down like you hate being there. GO your playing basketball for a living!!! Buffalo loves you, Idiana oho and portland. Just go out there put a half smile on your face and be GO!!!!! You are better then this greg on and off the court. You got great teammates that got your back and your GO!!! your Greg feaking Oden!!!! Time to start showing people the real Greg Oden!!! Get mad, get aggresive!!! YOU DA MAN GO JUST GO OUT THERE AND THROW THAT BODY AROUND AND DOMINATE THE PAINT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I WOULDNT BOTHER WRITING THIS IF I DIDNT BELIEVE IN YOU. - MIKE FROM COLD ASS BUFFALO. P.S ID GIVE 30 YEARS OFF MY LIFE TO BE PLAYING BALL FOR A LIVING.
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Rosecity07 said November 26, 2008

Why is it time to start showing it? People rarely know the things they wish for. If he does great one night he is never allowed to play bad again. If he plays bad he will never play good again If that were true Roy and Aldridge would never be as good as they are today. It takes time. I'm more worried about Rudy and Bayless getting better than Greg. With Greg it's a matter of experience and conditioning.
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steelersfan3 said January 19, 2009

dont worry about it u play great greg its only ur 1st game but after 2 or 3 i bet youll be scoring about23
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davesmith said February 10, 2009

yea i know how you feel i missed three weeks of practice due to injury i gotta catch up
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