Jan 27...............THE DAY I'LL NEVER FORGET.

One year ago from that day. I was playing a game against Michigan State while I was at The Ohio State University. I started the game with 3 consecutive right handed jump hooks to the baseline. People in the crowd was all excited and so was i. People who knew me and were close to me at the game or watching was like HE DOESNT KNOW AT ALL. We ended up winning the game. It went down to the wire, but we pulled it out. My best friend (Travis Smith) wanted to go to the game so bad, but my grandmother was visiting my mom and they were gonna come, so i told him i didn't have any tickets. About 3 hours before the game my mom said they weren't gonna make it because my grandmother wasn't feeling too good. So before the game i went to my dorm to take my usual 45 minute nap before i went back to the arena. I got my usual everyday call from my friend Travis, wishing me good luck tonight. I wanted to tell him that i had tickets for him, but i didn't because i wasn't sure if he would have enough time to make it to the game driving from Ball State University in Muncie, IN. So we talked for 5 minutes and then i went to sleep. After the game we go see the family and as i walked up everyone kept telling me that they're so sorry for my loss. My brother gave me a big hug, i had no idea what was going on. I finally started thinking that something happened to my grandmother because she wasn't feeling well. Coach Thad Matta and Mike Conley Sr. took me into coach's office and told me what happened. My friend Travis was riding with some friends and got in a car accident. The driver was scratch-less, the guy in the back seat had some scars, and Travis, who was in the passenger seat, died on impact. I balled my eyes out in my coach's office. I cried so much that i have not cried since, not even at the funeral. A year later i asked Coach Nate if i could make a trip home for the weekend and he allowed me. I got to see my mom's house for the first time, its huge. I got to see the car i bought her, its so nice and fast. I know its fast because i took a trip on Sunday the 27th to Terre Haute, IN to surprise visit my best friend's family Jimmy, Tami Smith his parents, Courtney Smith his sister, and Jerry and Cookie Dooley his grandparents. They told me i made their day, but in real life they made me, by letting one of the best, most thoughtful people I've ever met in my life be my best friend. How i treat and act around people was the same thing he did. He influenced me in many ways. Its funny cause as a guy you don't feel right talking to a dude everyday over the phone, but Travis was one person i could. The conversation was different. If i needed someone to talk to i would call or if he just wanted to call and curse someone out i was there. He was and still is my best friend and he will be missed R.I.P. 5.5.87 TRAVIS JAMES SMITH 1.27.07

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Comments (85)

tcbball119 said January 29, 2008

wow... sorry. Makes me want to make my friends wear helmets and knee pads where ever they go...
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Zers4sure said January 29, 2008

You're a stand-up guy - having gone through the same thing with my brother, I know how hard anniversaries are. Thanks for sharing...I know it can be tough.
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Valencia said January 29, 2008

A death of a good friend is horrible, my daughters father was killed four years ago, he was my good friend and the pain still lingers. Thanks for sharing such a personal story.
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Panthersfan said January 29, 2008

I still cannot believe you played in that game Greg, your character and heart showed for playing in that day. I'm sorry about Travis, it's always tragic to lose someone as close as you and Travis seemed to be.
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GOblazers04 said January 29, 2008

Greg I am so sorry to hear this. It is so hard to lose someone you are close to. Thanks for sharing tho.
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rayj0101 said January 29, 2008

A death is always sad. Just try to remember to celebrate their lives, and make the most of our own.
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kgoon1590 said January 29, 2008

I admire your courage for doing what you had to do. I hope that you feel some peace a year later.
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McLovinPDX said January 29, 2008

Hey Greg i dont know what to say because i never been through something like that. i had problems with family members or friends whos got hurt before but nobody has passed away. I feel sorry for you and anyone whos dealt with death. i would write more but its hard to put thoughts on paper like this subject so its cool that you would with people who you dont know. thanks Greg for this personal blog it makes you thankful for the things you have
Mclov
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KeeganJM said January 29, 2008

Wow man, really touching story. Im sorry for your loss man. A lot of people especially guys dont find friends like that. Wow man, that makes me very sad.

Thanks for sharing that will all of us. I hope by sharing it takes some of the pain away for you.

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hurrakane212 said January 29, 2008

I have lost several dear friends in car wrecks. It's so hard, so random, so "here one minute, gone the next." The abrupt shock of learning that someone you have just spoken to earlier that day is now gone forever really shakes you to your core. There are a lot of things I feel like saying about seat belts and raising the driving age etc, etc. But that's not why I am commenting, I'd just like you to know that I understand how it hurts (still) and kinda metaphorically stand with you as you remember your friend.~Nathan
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- PhuckPhilly replied February 03, 2008
  
  ----
mickeyd27 said January 29, 2008

I'm just so tired
Won't you sing me to sleep
And fly through my dreams
So I can hitch a ride with you tonight
And get away from this place
Have a new name and face
I just ain't the same without you in my life

Late night drives, all alone in my car
I can't help but start
Singing lines from all our favorite songs
And melodies in the air
Singin' life just ain't fair
Sometimes I still just can't believe you're gone

And I'm sure the view from heaven
Beats the hell out of mine here
And if we all believe in heaven,
Maybe we'll make it through one more year
Down here

Feel your fire,
When its cold in my heart
And things sorta start
Remindin' me of my last night with you
I only need one more day
Just one more chance to say
I wish that I had gone up with you too

And I'm sure the view from heaven
Beats the hell out of mine here
And if we all believe in heaven
Maybe we'll make it through one more year
Down here
You won't be comin' back
And I didn't get to say goodbye (goodbye)
I really wish I got to say goodbye

And I'm sure the view from heaven
Beats the hell out of mine here
And if we all believe in heaven
Maybe we'll make it through one more year
I hope that all is well in heaven
Cuz it's all shot to hell down here
I hope that I find you in heaven
Cuz I'm so...
Lost without you down here

You won't be coming back
And I didn't get to say goodbye (goodbye)
I really wish I got to say gooooodbye

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teezy_tony said January 29, 2008

dam greg your story almost made me cry dude.im sorry for the loss.I have that exact type of friend where you can talk to on the phone everyday and it woudnt feel awkward.keep your head up dude.
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thomashacker said January 29, 2008

sad stuff. everyone experiences some tragedy in their life, sorry for your loss.
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McGuiganFamily said January 29, 2008

Greg, I am sorry that you are still having a hard time with the loss. I know you are surrounded by your friends & family that love you very much. I hope you are going to be OK. I worry about you being so far away, please call if you need to talk, I am at Fall Creek Valley now. Miss you sweetie! Where did Zoe move too? Close to us or Carmel? Love you!
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SalemBlazer said January 29, 2008

When I was 7 years old, my mom decided that we would not wait for my dad and would go home with neighbors. That night, 8-11-50, my father was in an accident that would have included all of us if we would have been with him. He lived three days before he died in the hospital. I did not allow myself to talk about it for 38 years. Talking, and crying is good. Your friedship would be something to be very proud of - and I'm sure your friend Travis cared for you as much as you cared for him. He will be watching over you and will be smiling... Never forget that!
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DRAFTODEN said January 29, 2008

Great post greg very sad
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rcs360 said January 29, 2008

It's always hard losing someone you know. I had a friend my HS freshman year 5 years back that I only knew for one semester. She sat behind me in my Spanish class and she was fun to be around with and lit up the whole class with her attitude. But during winter break a couple days after Christmas, she was riding w/out her seat belt in the right passenger seat and she and her friends got into an accident and she died on the scene. I happened to read the newspaper the next day, not knowing what happened, and I saw her face and on the Metro section, and the tragic news. It was hard to believe someone at my school, someone who I actually knew, wasn't going to be there when I went back. The whole class knew what happened by the time we went back, and it was very quiet.
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Oden52Rocks said January 29, 2008

Greg,
I know Travis was fortunate to have you as his friend. Best wishes,
Mark
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britneyrose said January 29, 2008

Aww...that's absolutely horrible. Nobody should ever have to go through something like that. I can't even begin to imagine losing my best friend. It takes such a strong person to get through the death of a loved one. I am sorry for your loss and may he rest in peace.
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ItsMrHarris2u said January 30, 2008

Great post G.O. Keep keepin' it real and peace will find you... oh, and next year, on 1/27/09, I expect to see some hook shots from the baseline.
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DucksAlum06 said January 30, 2008

I remember the day that this story surfaced and the media got a hold of it. I had a best friend who got in a car accident and passed away November 22nd, 2006. When I heard what happened to you it really made me feel for you because I just went through the same thing. It's a day and a loss I will never forget either. It makes you realize that you need to live in the moment because unexpected things happen all the time. I feel for you now a year later. You are a great guy and role model and I know you keep the memory of your friend Travis alive by letting him shine through you. We both are young guys who can learn a lot from what has happened to us but always remember that they will never be forgotten if you let them shine through you. My thoughts and prayers are with you and I know you'll never let Travis be forgotten. Much love to you during this time Greg.
Josh
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mzbossy said January 30, 2008

Man, I really want to cry from reading this. I heard you tell this story b4 on t.v. and cried then...everytime i here it just makes think about when my brother and one of my best friends got into their wreck. Both of them(wrecks) were bad...i mean really bad, but thank god not one of them got a simple cut on them...I dont know how you feel but 4 going through that experience you'll b a stronger person....P.S. Nice of you to still keep in contact with his family, now dats a friend that will always b there!
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tominhawaii said January 30, 2008

Thanks Greg,
You are truly a special person, your openness and honesty is inspiring. I try to make light of every situation and I cannot this time. Thanks for sharing with us and my thoughts are with you.
Tom
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beavfan said January 30, 2008

Thanks for sharing this G.O.! Always keeping it real. Friends and family are all we really have in this world, no matter how much money we have (or don't have). You would be a wealthy man even if you didn't have a penny to your name. Keep on doing it the right way!
-- Big Sturge
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Rosecity07 said January 30, 2008

I feel you about not being able to cry any more. Your tears have hormones in them that get released when you cry and it's very cathartic. I cried so much at the first funeral of a family member, then not so much at my aunts because I just couldn't anymore. I have a friend just like that, he is very tall compared to me (6-4) and we been best friends since high school. It's not so unusual to be that close. I'm glad you still have so many friends and it's good you stay in touch with his family. Family is the only people you can trust.
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Annt74 said January 30, 2008

Wherever your bud is...I hope its better than this place...
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Dclay6045 said January 30, 2008

Thanks for sharing G.O. Believe me, he is in a better place. It is said that they who have many friends and die young are needed somewhere else. God had plans for him and he is hard at work doing what God needs him to do. Stay strong Big Man!!!!!
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Gittle said January 30, 2008

That was a real tragedy, Greg. I remember when that happened, and Travis Smith was beloved my many. He truly touched the lives of everyone he knew. I noted the impact it had on Purdue's captain, Chris Kramer. For an 18- or 19-year-old to lose a best friend, and when that friend is 19 himself, it's real difficult. Stay strong and keep plugging!
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kieranhawe said January 30, 2008

that is some crazy stuff greg - guess why you should live for today cause you never know what can happen tomorrow
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GOblazers04 said January 30, 2008

Im really sorry Greg. I bet he would be really proud of all you have accomplished though.
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SodaPopinski said January 29, 2008

Greg I'm sorry for your loss. I cannot even imagine the feeling of losing a best friend, especially at your young age. But it sounds like his spirit carries on in the people who loved him which is all anyone can ask for when they leave this planet.
Take care and enjoy your time back home with your friends and family.
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PapaOrnel said January 29, 2008

Sounds like you guys had a real connection... I'm sure he is looking down on you and smiling :)
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Tenacious_D said January 29, 2008

Ahh, When I was at Saturdays game I looked down and didn't see you sitting behind the bench. I thought you finally had enough of this Oregon weather, packed it up and flew back to Miami? I just want to say that you are a very stand up guy. You are well grounded and always seem to place family and friends before yourself. You bring all the qualtities plus many more to a city who was calling out for change. You are a true Trailblazer. Not on the court, but in life. My thoughts & prayers go out to you and the Smith Family.
Peace out!
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R11yardbarker said January 29, 2008

Hang in Greg. I think because you look older we often forget how young you still are. It's hard to lose people close to you at any age but especially when you're young. My mom died out of the blue 25 years ago when I was 26 and it was pretty tough. We'll be happy to see you when you get back to PDX.
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hoopsdreams said January 30, 2008

Greg,
Thank you for sharing with all of us. You are such a stand up guy. Travis was and is lucky to have a friend like you.. I lost someone very close to me on 2.15.07 and I find myself thinking more and more of him as the anniversary nears. It is tough, you want the pain to go away but you never ever want to forget them or for that person to lose that special place in your heart. Honor his memory and talk about him often. Again, thanks for sharing.
God Bless,
Jon
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francesdooley said January 30, 2008

Greg: I pray for you, Courtney, Jimmy and Tami every day. Travis was the most energized, exuberant person I've ever known. Didn't he have the greatest laugh? Losing him has left a large hole in our hearts. He would want you to be happy and to excel in all that you do. I have some funny pictures of him that I will share with you in August at the golf tourney. Keep the faith, Aunt Francie in Missouri
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leslie said January 30, 2008

yeah thats sad but im in Mrs. Smith's fifth hour class and we hear a lot about you. you seem like a good guy. im sure they're all proud of you.
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wvchic said January 30, 2008

Im very sorry about your lose but im a student of Mrs.Smiths and I know how hard it's been for her.
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Airport1990 said January 30, 2008

Thanks for sharing Greg. Just please try not to speed too much yourself. We already lost one young promising Blazer that way many years ago.
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Blazermark said January 30, 2008

Hey Greg, I lost my best friend tragically when we were 15. He was struck by a van while on his bike. I came across the accident and was forced to watch as my best friend was dying. It was over 20 years ago now, but I still think of him almost daily. Best friends are special people. I hope you are able to find peace with this. It helps to think about the good times, but it doesn't make us miss them any less.

GO BLAZERS!
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Blazermark said January 30, 2008

Hey Greg, I lost my best friend tragically when we were 15. He was struck by a van while on his bike. I came across the accident and was forced to watch as my best friend was dying. It was over 20 years ago now, but I still think of him almost daily. Best friends are special people. I hope you are able to find peace with this. It helps to think about the good times, but it doesn't make us miss them any less.

GO BLAZERS!
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carrite said January 30, 2008

Hi Greg-- My best friend from childhood was killed in a car crash this past August. It's one of the worst feelings I know, worse even than the death of relatives. And the worst part is, there's not a thing that anyone can do about it. Just remember the good times, that will never go away. And hang in there, because things get better with time. Sorry for your loss. --t
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gregoden said January 30, 2008

Thanks for all your support. It means a lot to me.
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- scnbenstein replied January 30, 2008
  
  No prob Greg... my childhood friend died when I was thirteen. It's something you never forget.
RajonRondo said January 30, 2008

Dag man...I'm sorry to hear about your loss. It's hard to have a friend you can really trust with us having the careers that we do. We are very fortunate if we get one true friend, and I'm sorry to hear about the passing of yours.
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- gregoden replied February 08, 2008
  
  a man thanks alot bra sorry it took so long to get back to you
davorin said January 30, 2008

sorry for your loss...but he lives through you in your memories and allways will. I have lost some of my best friends in 91 and 92 in one of those stupid little wars that europe got wraped up, and still today I feel guilt ( like could i do something different and they would be still alive ), but time heals everything. Stay strong, nothing you could do about it, it was his time to go, and today he is watching you from above, so just make sure you made his proud every day
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LiL_OnE_4GSW said January 30, 2008

GO-- i was in a bad accident when i was a lil girl, my childhood best friend didnt make it... last august i lost another childhood friend to suicide in a hospital.....
its very saddening.. but knowing i still have family and the couple of real true best friends i got supporting me and constantly being there for me helps me get by.
I might get a lil Tom Cruise on u right now so forgive me, Im learning bout scientology and dianetics..
Travis will always be with u no matter what, his spirit is forever alive and just in a different person.. if u will.

You have ppl who have ur back here, no matter what team we are reppin. We are all an NBA family here, so were here to support u Greg.

Dearly sorry for the loss.
keep ya head up.

-- LiL OnE
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Nurse1990 said January 30, 2008

Sorry for your lost guy. It's a tragic that everyone still talks about. IM a devoted friend to his mother, father and grandparents, Cookie and Jerry Dooley. I do have a best friend that lives in Orlando, Florida and he and I chat everyday. Just know that Travis would be so proud of you and everything that your doing. Keep up the good work and know that Travis Smith is in heaven looking over and out for you. God bless....
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Soccer4Life said January 30, 2008

Greg, I am in Mrs. Smith's 5th hour Med Careers class. She talks about you and Travis all the time. Somehow I kind of feel like I can relate. I also lost a close friend of mine 9-28-06. The last thing my mother said to me at his funeral was that I have got to let his spirit live on in everything that I do. I didn't know Travis personally, but I had heard alot about him. Mrs. Smith talks so highly of you. You are a respected man in my book. Keep his memory alive man.
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Okellyc said January 30, 2008

Sorry Greg. That is an extremely tough thing to deal with, especially at your age. I hope that you and your family are better and that your rehabilitation is going well. Your going to meet some real cats in the league, you have a very bright future.

Good luck next season.
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Jasonball said January 30, 2008

Greg,

I cant even imagine the tragedy that you felt on that day and the days after being told about your best friends death. I'm sure he is looking in on you from time to time and I have faith that he is at great peace and fellowship with God. Thank you for honoring him in the best way you can by being the polite, thoughtful and fun person that you are, it means a lot to me. I try to honor my grandmother in the same manner because she taught me how to respect people and how to grow into the man I am today. Take care Gregâ€¦..we're praying for you!!

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agrant said January 30, 2008

what up greg! been a while hommie. my buddy nick told me about this site. get at me soon big man...
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TLongy said January 31, 2008

My Aunt Marie died today so I'm feeling a litle bit of what you're feeling Greg. I love her, but I know she's in a better place now. Good luck. :)
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MH0408 said January 30, 2008

Greg Oden,
I cant even imagin losing someone that close to me, I know that saying that everything is alright doesnt bring the person back but I am sure that He would be very proud of you. Just think when you are playing in games he will be watching over you in heaven. Keep strong!

love,
~your #1 fan~

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BroyOden17 said January 31, 2008

Keep strong, Travis would be amazingly proud just knowing you was da numba #1 pick in da NBA draft. He still got your back, and will forever.
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mercedes1 said January 29, 2008

Greg-
Sorry to hear about your friend. Thanks for sharing.
Also, what kind of car did you buy your mom ?
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sevgar said January 31, 2008

Anyone who ever saw you and Travis together knew that you were more than best friends...you were and always will be brothers. Your friendship was one that most people don't ever get to experience. All of us who cared about Travis lost someone who can never be replaced. I hope you find some comfort in knowing that Travis lives on in you and all the people who loved him. You don't need anyone to tell you this...Travis will be with you forever. Take care of yourself...be safe.
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texasgirl said January 31, 2008

Thank you for sharing this personal experience with us, Greg, and my condolences. Know that Travis is watching and supporting you from above. I wish you the best...
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anhoba said January 31, 2008

Wow. I'm all choked up at work reading your post. Thank you for sharing. I lost my Mom two years ago. I miss her and think of her everyday. Her absence leaves me with a huge hole in my life. It's funny because I notice myself becoming more like her each passing day. She lives on in me, through me... so, just know that Travis lives on in you. Continue to make him proud!
I would suggest you respect your loss by allowing yourself to continue to grieve. Let it out when you can! I think it might help with the hole that you've been left with. If nothing else, know that we're all here listening, anxious to help you however we can! ;0)
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terrelove said January 31, 2008

Hey Greg. Im glad to hear you are pulling through despite the loss of Travis. I'd hafta agree with everyone that seen the two of you together, yall were like brothers. I remember the day he came to meet you at our house after he got the same tatoo that you had that said *Family*. I know there was a special bond between you that cannot be duplicated. At the same time I hope it helps you cherish the relationships you have now with family and close friends. I love you bunches and pass on love from Grandpa & Grandma! Keep ya head up & and do the great things we know you can do!
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LadyFanofOSU said January 31, 2008

Greg,
Dealing with death, especially when it's totally unexpected and someone close, can be so tough. It seems like you have a lot of love and support in your life. Although no one will be able to replace your friend Travis, I hope that you feel that you still have people who genuinely care about you now. It's been great to get to watch you play, and I wish you all the best.
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TLongy said January 31, 2008

Greg,

I'm sorry about your best friend. That really sucks. I think the best thing you can do is live life in a manner that would make him proud.

BTW, your team needs you! I realize you might not think you are a big part of things since you're not playing, but I disagree. I think your teammates miss you being around. Come home soon! We miss you!
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sdubya said February 01, 2008

greg, true friends are very hard to come by. it is said that there may only be 3 in your entire life. I am sorry for your loss.
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Kandace05 said January 31, 2008

Your story truely touched me. I too had a friend lost in a car accident at the age of 16 in 2002. It was so hard. If your like me, then there isn't a day that goes by that you don't think about them at least once. Wondering, what could have been. I'm glad to see your pulling through, this will only make you stronger. I'm sure he is smiling down on you, maybe even your guarding angel. I will continue to pray for you, and your friends family. =)

-Kandace*
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Troydooley said January 31, 2008

Greg: It is hard to believe that it has been a year since the tragic accident that took the life of your best friend Travis. I spend a part of each day praying for you and your family and for Jim, Tami, Courtney, Jerry & Cookie. I thank you for being Travis best friend and you are a blessing to those that you come in contact with in the memory of Travis. I look forward to seeing you in August at the Golf Tournament that Honors Travis.
Troy Dooley
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XoBritt2008Xo said January 31, 2008

Greg,
I am in Tami's 1st hour class at Northview, we talk about Travis all the time and i feel like i kno him even tho i didnt... I lost a friend not to long ago because she was in a car accident and it was heartbreaking. We talk about you all the time too and how close you and Travis were... Stay Strong and best of luck this season!!
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bsu1083 said February 01, 2008

Greg,
I remember hearing about Travis this time last year. I went to Ball State and actually played intramural basketball with some of his golf teammates. I can tell you the impact of that accident could be felt all over campus, and though I didn't know Travis personally, those who did were in shock. In his short time at BSU he made many friends and I think that speaks to the type of person he was. He is a Cardinal that will missed and never forgotten.
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madelinemary said February 01, 2008

Greg, the Dooley's came into a shop where I work and told us about Travis and the wonderful article you posted here. They both spoke very highly of you and told us how much they appreciated you coming over to see them. They are great people and we loved meeting them...
Being an Indiana Pacer ticketholder, it's good to hear there are good people like you in the NBA. Not enough is said about the good guys !

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valerieb37 said February 03, 2008

Greg,
My thoughts are with you always.
Do you still have the fortune cookie paper??
-Valerie
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chibucks said February 04, 2008

i still remember hearing that you lost your best friend that day... i'm sure he'd be proud to know that he influenced the man you've become.
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whiten10 said February 04, 2008

the flipside to losing a best firend is to make a new one. there are people around you that want to get to know you better...just look out your window and you'll find one.
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ColinAtkinson said February 05, 2008

True friendship is like sound health; the value of it is seldom known until it be lost.
~ Colton
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BeltzK said February 05, 2008

Greg,
I remember hearing about his death as well and being totally stunned. Needless to say, I did not know Travis as well as you did, but I had played in several golf tournament with him and against him to know him well enough. He was a very cool, very fun, and very thoughtful guy. I really enjoyed being in his group in tournaments because it was a great time just talking and getting to know each other better. I still vividly remember the MIC Tournament (I went to Center Grove) in Terre Haute our senior season at Hulman Links. Travis and I were having a great time, and then I remember turning around and out of the woods I see a huge 7 footer walking our way. Travis turned to me and said, "Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you Greg was coming to watch." Anyways, my dad chatted with you more than I did, but in talking a bit to Travis I could really tell how much he valued his friendship with you and how you were a brother to him. Friendships like these are truly special. I was truly saddened when I heard Travis died. I had chatted with him about two weeks before it happened and were talking about hanging out. I was very sad. Greg, I continue to wish you well. I pray that your knee continues to heal so that you can get back out onto the court.
RIP Travis Smith
I'll remember Travis in my prayers again tonight!
Kevin Beltz
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NY_BaLLn said February 04, 2008

hey greg, sorry about wat happened
you know you only have a few close friends in life, sorry to hear you lost one
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david1978pdx said February 06, 2008

G.O. - Sorry for your loss. True friends are hard to find in this world. Be sure to tell everyone that matters to you that you love them every day.
Speaking of friends... You need to tell Josh to get blogging.
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nwjuggalo said February 06, 2008

Wow dude. Just wow. I can't even image what that must feel like.
I get nervous whenever my best friend drives anywhere with her phone on her. She gets sloppy, doing the text message thing or talking on the phone while driving. Utter stupidity but she does it sometimes.
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Darlingmgd said February 07, 2008

I sincerely wish you the best! My best friend past in an accident February 24th, 2002. I miss him so much. His name was Darin Paul Metcalfe. I think that just sharing those deep pains helps to heal the broken heart just a little more everytime. I really wish that your friend Travis could have seen your future unfold with you from your side. You will just have to know that he is and will always be with you no matter what!! I propose a toast to his family and you Mr.Oden for having the courage to share that story with us and allowing us to see a very personal and emotional side of Greg Oden. You are sincerely a good man with a huge heart to visit the family and touch their hearts as you have ours. Thankyou! Cheers! To Travis and fallen friends around the world!!!
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Darlingmgd said February 07, 2008

Go Blazers!!!!!!!Rip City returns and OH BABY do we have the meal ticket here in P-Town!!! The NBA needs to get in line because they are about to get served!

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Peppmanx said February 08, 2008

Hi Greg, my name is Nick. I am a huge fan of you and admire your stand up personality. I am deeply sorry about what happened to your friend. I recently lost a childhood friend also. My friend was in a plane accident. When I heard about my friend, all of the air left my body, I felt like I was in a different world. There were many things that will always remind me of them. Losses like this do allow an increased appreciation for the person and how their life impacted the people around them. In an different way, the loss of these people brings an opportunity for new strength. Thoughts of what that person would want for you can go through your mind. You can then realize that they would want you to continue on and honor them by representing them in the best ways possible.
Losses like this can be very hard and when the anniversary of their death comes it brings back the memories. Memories of the good times are what we have left to hold on to though. After all when it comes down to it, it's all about the memories. No one can take those away from you, and that's why we as people need to hold on to those to deal with the loss of loved ones. I wish you the best and good luck with all that you have to deal with and reflect on. I look forward to reading more posts, I just became a member today.

-Nick
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JimLance said February 09, 2008

Greg,
I am sure Jimmy and Tammi were suprised and happy by your visit. I think that it is important for everyone to no that you are a greatful and everlasting friend. I am fortunate to have known you for a long time and everyone needs to no that you have always been a super person. Courtney has always had two big brothers and those of us around you know that will always be true. Hope to see you on the court for many years. JIM,LINDA,MATT & CHRIS ... PS I look at your pictures of you and Travis and the rest of the guys everyday on my computer screen for great memories.
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mgolf87 said February 13, 2008

Greg,
This is Mark Metheny from Terre Haute...not sure if you know me but i golfed with Travis. Just wanted you to know that everyone in the Haute is rooting for you and i'm praying for a fast recovery for you. Once again sorry for your loss, i know he was a really good guy. Good luck with everything.
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andeen said February 14, 2008

Thanks for sharing, Greg. You've clearly got a lot of depth - and we're lucky you share it with us. So much more than just a baller.
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Chelsea5587 said February 28, 2008

Greg... its Chels...Jimmy had mom read that after you wrote it but I just wasn't ready for it. And now that I finally did I'm so happy that I did!!! You were the only person I think Trav would of ever let sleep on the other side me other then him, or let me take you to prom!! I remember how excited he would get to watch you on TV if he couldn't be there. We would have to watch it in my dorm because you know how he was... no one could talk!!! He looked forward to talking to you on the phone just as much as you enjoyed talking to him. I remember one night you were in the Haute and we were both at school and he was so pissed cause you got to sleep in his bed...ahh that might be the most comfortable bed in the world!! I will never forget the night he looked at me and told me he was moving to wherever you got drafted to and was going to take care of your dogs and then go join the PGA and he was dead serious. You 2 living in the same house would be kind of scary!!! Greg your friendship was everything to him, you were his brother! And Trav wouldn't of been the person he was and is if you were not a part of his life! When people ask about those pictures of you 2.the first question is were they best friends...i just look at them and said no, brothers!!! I always get a funny look after I make that comment!! But I just wanted you to know that you are so strong and Trav is with us everyday...He loves you so much Greg!!! And that picture I got you better be hanging up in your house!! Take care of yourself Ody!! And that knee better be stronger than ever!! I'm ready to go to a game and wear my jersey!!! Talk to you soon!!!
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Jan 27...............THE DAY I'LL NEVER FORGET.

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