The Depression

So on Tuesday we had our first. The guys played a pretty good game unfortunately we lost to last year champs the Spurs. I was proud of the guys even with Brandon not having his best game we stayed pretty close. I felt so bad because all i could think about is what it would be like if i was playing. I know Tim Duncan would of bust my head, more than a couple of times, but i wanted to know how i would play against him. Yesterday was a very hard day for me because all i could think about was going out there and playing. I know that i wont be playing for a year, for the fact that i dont want to rush back and come back worse. I just want to be out there tomorrow. LaMarcus playing so good didnt help because the announcers keep saying "with Aldridge playing so good, it makes you wonder what it would be like if the other piece of the puzzle was there," that really hurt me because i want to play so bad. Good thing is that im keeping good spirits, lifting every other day, and i get to scout the whole entire league. Knowing that the season started its going to be really hard to be the happy always smiling guy that i am, because i want to be playing so bad.

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Comments (85)

Awesome said November 01, 2007

Don't be depressed, Greg. At least you're you and not, say, Sam Bowie.

You have a long career ahead of you and plenty of time to heal. Just don't hurt your hands. It's bad enough you can't play hoops; I'd hate to see your blogging career put on hold, too.

Good luck with the rehab.
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- DrJohn replied November 02, 2007
  
  That was AWESOME!
BenCho said November 01, 2007

I felt the same way watching that game last night. We played great but we needed just a little more. A couple calls and bouncing on the rim and we upset the defending champs on their ring night. How great that would have been? It is going to be a long year and I think everyone will think that with every close loss, what if? You can start thinking that those games will be wins next year. Because you will be stronger and more prepared for it. The fans and the city have set the bar high for you. I have no doubt you can exceed expectations of yourself. As a Blazer fan I was hoping for you when I heard about you when you were a senior in high school. Now you are on the team, another year will be worth the wait. Just keep griding, time will fly by.
Ben
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HoopsBlogging said November 01, 2007

Keep your chin up, Greg, you've got a very long and exciting career ahead of you.
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Jeffhardyfan52 said November 01, 2007

keep your head up high greg it will be all good. try to to think of how long its going to be just fouces on geting better everyones 100 pecent behind you.
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youknowit said November 01, 2007

yeah it sucks that you have to miss out your first season, but that just gives you all the more reason to make a insane comeback next year. best of luck with rehab, it looks like all is going well!
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Valencia said November 01, 2007

Ah man, I feel so bad for you right now, but just continue to work hard during your recovery and you will come back strong next season.
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DRAFTODEN said November 01, 2007

this sucks I wish you were healthy, just saw you on espn news in a commerical for espn magazine. It was pretty cool. You were walking around all fine though so it must of been taped a while ago.
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- gregoden replied November 02, 2007
  
  it was taped this summer
SVPStyle said November 01, 2007

nah, i think you would've gave it to him.
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- Awesome replied November 01, 2007
  
  LOL, yeah!
dinabanina said November 01, 2007

Aw, Greg, it sucks to hear you depressed like this. You're still so young, though, and already ahead of the game. You can afford to lose this year of playing, and use it as a year of learning. Good luck with the recovery, and let me know when you wanna play some polo :)
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- gregoden replied November 02, 2007
  
  lol thanks
Panthersfan said November 01, 2007

I'm proud of your boys to Greg. With you in the line up, given some time to grow together- you're gonna be a force.
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IFChris said November 01, 2007

just look at this year as a time to get stronger so when next season does start, you all will fly out of the gate. good luck.
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MidnightPDX said November 01, 2007

hey, don't get your head down. Look at it this way, where you at right now gives you the oppertunity to look at guys like Duncan and others, learn their moves, and when you come in next year, BOOM, they got nothing to surprise you with. And on the flip side, none of them have anything on you. This city loves you man, we're all behind you. Just concentrate, do what you can to get an advantage now, and kick some butt next year.
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- gregoden replied November 02, 2007
  
  lol ok
mtv2004 said November 01, 2007

Greg, I wanted to see how you would play against Tim Duncan too. I've been watching you since you since your last 2 games in high school. I am a fan of the great big men and I think you can big the next great big man once you get healthy and play again. I wish you all the best and stay in there
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teenalouise said November 01, 2007

Hang in there Greg, with your positive attitude and work ethic you will stronger and more determined to bring a championship to Portland next year.
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OSUalum said November 01, 2007

Try to think of the positives of getting to focus on training and watching the other teams for a whole season instead of getting banged up every other night. Use this opportunity to learn everything you can, and next year you'll be a physical AND mental monster. I know you want to be out there and God know your fans cant wait, but not many guys get this opportunity to prep before their big splash.
By the way, thanks for talking a moment to shake and say Hi when you were in the parking lots at the IU game in Bloomington!
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dz_pdx said November 01, 2007

Don't put too much pressure on yourself to always be happy. Rehabbing that knee is a long, hard project, and I'm sure it gets frustrating at times. How about a post on some of the non-rehab stuff you've been doing? Movies? Games? How are you keeping busy?
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oduck1233 said November 01, 2007

GO, not being able to play sucks more than anything. Hopefully you can keep thinkin' about how great it's going to be the first time they get to announce your name at the Rose Garden. I can't wait for that ovation. I guarantee you'll get chills, and by then, the knee will be 100%.
Keep working big guy. Nobody's disappointed in you, and nobody wants you to rush back. No matter what, you're the man.
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Blazers_NBA said November 01, 2007

Don't worry about it to much Greg. You will have plenty of time to have your way with Tim Duncan in the future. The team is going to need you to be there for them to keep them motivated. The most important things for you this year is to get healthy and to be a good cheerleader. Just no short dresses (the thought frightens me). Keep up the good work on your rehab. You will be off of the crutches soon then you can spend more time with the team and get use to what will be expected of you next year.
Jerry
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Vlad83 said November 01, 2007

G.O., We all wanna see you play and can't wait for your return. None of us were in your shoes and we can only imagine how terrible you must feel! By the way my buddy saw you at the DMV! You are so awesome how you kept your cool with the people working there! If I was in your position I would have lost my mind and told them to repect my authority LOL!
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scnbenstein said November 01, 2007

yea YOU are that missing piece

good luck with rehabbing buddy
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- gregoden replied November 02, 2007
  
  thanks
david1978pdx said November 01, 2007

Sorry to hear that GO. I would be bummed too if that were me. It may be delayed, but you will get to play. PDX is rooting for you. The fans at the RG will always be there to cheer you up. See you on 11/13!
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Kelspeed said November 01, 2007

G O, Ohhhden, The Judge, Greg, Greg Russell, The Beast... whatever we end up calling you once you start swatting balls into the seats all over the Rose Garden - I'll always refer to you as 'The Guy Who Cares'.

Don't worry about it man - Depression is something that analytical people with big consciences have to bare. Took me 30 years before I understood that.

Your situation for better or for worse was destiny - and the fruit of success will be that much sweeter when you finally do ARRIVE.
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DRAFTODEN said November 01, 2007

oden+aldrige=dynasty
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- GetWellSoon52 replied November 02, 2007
  
  +Roy.
  :]
  - tcbball119 replied November 02, 2007
    
    +Martell!
BHF1999 said November 01, 2007

Head up, Greg. You'll get your chance and it's only going to be that much sweeter when you do.
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rayj0101 said November 01, 2007

going to be tough for the team to play without you. You were to be the face this year.
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moosetoss said November 01, 2007

This will be a good thing for you. At least now you can sit down, watch the opposing team's strategies against the Trailblazers and be more than ready for next year.
It must really suck that you can't go and just play, but your time will come. Just be patient, we have faith!
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highwillow said November 01, 2007

Hi GO! Attitude and determination will see you through this season of preparation. Use this opportunity to become a mental genius of the game and follow up with the physical conditioning as you heal. All of Portland is supporting you.
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McGuiganFamily said November 01, 2007

God has a reason and a plan for everyone. You are definitely one of God's Angels and you will find peace, even though you are playing, your team needs you and your fans need you! You touch so many people Greg! I wish I could be there to make you laugh you have given so much of yourself to everyone else! I love you sweetheart! It will be soon that you will be back on the court, actually you need a small break, try to relax, you deserve it, make use of it! Miss you! I am gonna see my WILL this weekend, I am so excited to see him do the WALK! Bye honey!
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- McGuiganFamily replied November 01, 2007
  
  oops, I meant aren't playing.
rcs360 said November 02, 2007

Hey man, keep your head up. The Blazers have a good outlook. You might not be out their with them, but being at the games you can is good. I'm a Kings fan, and you probably heard that Mike Bibby's out for 10 weeks. Coach Reggie Theus wants Bibby to act as a coach while he can't play. Maybe you can contribute to the team in some way.
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yobotch said November 02, 2007

I know you will play great next year! because you have the spirit of "wanting to play!!"
I live in japan but I am already big fun of yours, remember that you have someone supporting you from other side of the globe!! Good luck with your re-hab!! yo-bot
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MitchChilcott said November 02, 2007

stay strong
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BigDaddy said November 02, 2007

Hey G-Man, Keep your eyes on the prize! Stay focused and learn everything you can about the players you will be defending next year. One suggestion may be to focus and set more short term weekly goals regarding your rehab. Try imagining what it will be like when Brandon, Lamarcus, Martell, and yourself will be like next season. I GUARANTEE you that when your name is announced in the starting lineup next season, you will hear a roar you will NEVER EVER forget!! I would like to know what you are doing in your spare time as far as hobbies, etc. go. How's Barkley doing? Any more escapes? Peace.

Big Daddy
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bucknut said November 02, 2007

You gotta hang in there. Just think next year you will be smater and wiser than the rest. You skills are more than great, its the mental part that will improve!! Hang in there!!
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outlaw1969 said November 02, 2007

This too, shall pass. Rehab will only make the other parts of your body stronger. You'll be on the court in no time, and practicing with your teammates by the end of the season!! What doesn't kill you will make you stronger, and I'm sure you'll take care of your body and be a beast for years for what you are going through now!
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Chendaddy said November 02, 2007

you'll be there next year, better than ever. keep working your ass off, old man.
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Entity said November 02, 2007

The team will have much better chemistry by the time you come back. Plus, like you said, you'll get to see every player before they see you, and you'll have a pretty good idea of how the NBA works. You'll be better prepared mentally when your time comes around.

I don't know how this season will end up, but you all should be playoff bound next season for certain.
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jessealan said November 02, 2007

Greg, think about the positives in your situation. That is what you have to do. Find the bright side of things. It will be good this year and better next year. I will be watching from over in Coeur d Alene, Idaho.
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rsloads said November 02, 2007

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rsloads said November 02, 2007

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rsloads said November 02, 2007

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Jessie said November 02, 2007

Dear Greg, we are happy to have you in our team for several years, not just want to see you in one game or just one season. Don't be so depressed. I believe if you feel happy everyday, your body could recover quickly. Best wishes ! :-)
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Rosecity07 said November 02, 2007

Hey Greg just watching some of your clips on youtube. You are really athletic, do you think you'll still have the same jumping ability next year. That's all I care about, that you don't lose your hops and come back better than ever. I can't wait till next season, we are all feeling for you and this season you are going to train hard so you will be more prepared next year. Your going to be a star just like Roy and Aldridge, just be patient
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stillatin said November 02, 2007

man think about it though GO, you and LA in the frontcourt with R.O.Y. and taurean in the back? thats gonna be crazy next year.
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chinoxl said November 02, 2007

waddup boiii
don't even trip man. you'll be back next season.
perhaps this is the toughest part of rehab.. having to sit and watch the games and all. but learn from what you watch (i'm sure i don't have to tell you that).
one thing though.. this guy you're gonna be playing with, lamarcus "L-train" aldridge is pure BEAST. i didn't believe you when you said in an interview that you couldn't stop him in practice, but after seeing what he did to timmy d, i'm positive he's got the M.I.P (most improved) locked. now imagine that G.O.. rookie of the year and then M.I.P. the next year. you gotta be pumped for when you get back.
P.S. suggestion for your next entry: i say you film yourself pumping iron schwarzenegger style. you said you lift them 100 pound boys in your sleep. i gotta see that.
P.P.S. being from southern cali, i gotta tell you that you got a lot of doubters out here. you know, typical laker fans. just adding to your motivation.
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duncanvw said November 02, 2007

GO - TrailBlazer fans will lay down in traffic for a player whom we think respects the game and represents our city and, well, us as fans. In a short time, you've proven that you're that type of guy. And we'll be there for you. Portland has put together a team of 15 guys who we can root for night in and night out, and we consider you a very important part of that family.
Your body and your long-term health mean more in the long run than anything that happens on the court. Take care of yourself mentally and physically, and you'll be swatting shots and smiling with your teammates before you know it.
We're with you...
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johntimmer30 said November 02, 2007

You're the man Greg we love you because of your persona and work ethic and don't think that we all don't know what you're capable of. Real blazer fans are going to stick with their boys no matter what, good luck with the rehab :)
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12788890 said November 02, 2007

yea greg youll be back next year bigger and stronger. And you never know the team might do better without you and they might trade you say to a team like the cavs. you can play with one of the biggest stars in the game and in the state were you went to school.
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DNkemontoh said November 02, 2007

Don't worry about it bro. You'll be healthy and back on the court in no time. But if you ever really feel the need to play some ball we can get a gimp game goin and play in wheelchairs.
Gimp power baby!
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KareokeHustler said November 02, 2007

Look at it this way Greg. If the Blazers barely make it into the playoffs this year without you in there this year, imagine what this team is going to be like with you at 100%.
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joshbean said November 02, 2007

like many others have said - this year is inconsequential - next year you'll be healthy and ready to take the blazers to the next level!
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jaseptown said November 02, 2007

Tell Taureen to cut his hair. LOL!
can't wait to see u out there man. just play as u on nba live or whatever to get through the days!
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CaptainAmerica said November 02, 2007

I was just telling the wife and kids how fortunate the NBA is to have such good characters as you and Kevin Durant. Though we are in Minnesota, we look forward to watching the two of you. Our thoughts and prayers for you, Greg.
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RedUniInLA said November 02, 2007

Hey Greg, I want you to know that I had an accident about 12 days ago on Venice Beach (Blazer fan, living in LA) and had to have surgery in a couple places on my neck. I'm recovering pretty quickly, still have the neck brace on for a month or two, but am very, very lucky that I'm not paralyzed. Until this I was working out at the Y about 4 days a week and doing something outdoorsy and physical at least one day over each weekend -- I'm no professional athlete, but I like to stay fit and active. Anyway, I was even doing the occasional "Greg Oden's", as one of the writers at the Oregonian suggested, which are an extra couple of reps or laps dedicated to all the extra work you have to do to rehab and come back strong. But now, eager to return to just living a normal life of being able to drive and work and go on the occasional date, I am finding the new big challenge is to follow doctor's instructions and just take it easy, to not overdo it. So, I feel you that you want to just be back in the game, but do what they tell you and work hard at that and we'll see you on the court next year back better than ever. Thanks for the inspiration and try to keep positive, it's really all you can do.
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magilla said November 02, 2007

Greg, did you know the word Courage comes from the French word for "Heart"? And the word Invictus means "Undefeated". Here is a link to a poem titled Invictus . Read it if you want, and Take Heart. www.bartleby.com/103/7.html
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Dizzo_Dizzman said November 02, 2007

I couldn't agree more with CapAmerica. You and Durant seem like good, honest guys. I'm from Seattle and I feel for Durant right now. He's seen as the savior of the franchise that will keep the Sonics here in Seattle. And now with you out for the year, he's the new guy for the NBA. The next Michael Jordan or Kobe Bryant. Main that's a lot for a kid just a year and change out of High School.
Look on the bright side. You have a year to get ready mentally and emotionally for the NBA. Let the NBA hype machine focus in one Durant for a while. Study some tapes, get your head in order and get ready to play. Next year, you'll be back and everyone will want a piece of your success. My advice is to take some time now, and find that core group of friends and family that you can rely on. And teach yourself some humility before the adoration of all us fans gets to your head :-)
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vtdude said November 02, 2007

Dude, McRob didn't wear a costume to the party. Lame!
It's great having you in Portland.
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FutureDynasty said November 02, 2007

Greg -

Bill Walton's first two years in Portland were ruined by injuries. In his third year, his first healthy year, he wound up leading the team to the NBA championship.....hoping you can do the same one day....no pressure though!
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eazy213 said November 03, 2007

Oden is an animal. i love the 'chokehold' video on youtube...love to drink some beer and watch it with my buddies. cant wait to pound some and watch everygame..i hope my grades do dip but it will be worth it. i'll have one for you oden..

blazers rule
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chinoxl said November 03, 2007

yo greg, we got killed by the hornets tonight. you watch that game? we got outrebounded man. that tyson chandler is a rebounding machine. i'm sure you'll fix that problem next season.
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barberb said November 03, 2007

Well Mr. Oden, it was good seeing you on halloween,and I hope you took what I had to say to heart. I told you what I did, because I believe its important to give to something greater than yourself, though I'm sorry that some of my younger peers couldn't appreciate that. It was the only thing i could give someone in your position, and I'm thankful that you were giving back to the community. Remember, between fear and desire lie the entrance to paradise, and once they are balanced you will find your true purpose.
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addictedtolife said November 03, 2007

Yo Greg, It's Andy the new Blazermaniac here! I just wanted to say that I have been despressed too lately, and your team is keeping my spirits up. My grandpa passed away last night and it was pretty hard to take but he knew I loved the Blazers, so every time I go to a game I will think of him. And of you, and how badly you want to be out there helping, just how I wish he could still be there with me. But one day you will be back, and me and grandpappy can play horse in heaven, so the key is to make the most of today. And by that, I mean you and Charles Barkely McLovin keep on keepin on, and think good thoughts. I am really impressed by your blog, getting to see your emotions is something I haven't ever heard from an athlete before. I will be posting about you and my blazers on my blog at myspace/addictedtolife, and I just made a yardbarker so I could comment on your blog, keep it up man! It gives me something to look forward to! "Now starting at Center for the Portland Trailblazers, 7 foot 1 sophmore out of Ohio State, 300 pound Greg Oden!"

Andy Robinson
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SteveTheHedge said November 03, 2007

Could you talk about what scouting you're doing? I'm curious to know what kinds of things you're learning that's going to help you explode next year. Do you spend time with the film guys breaking down video, sitting in with the coaching staff analyzing the opposing team's tendencies, spending time with the staff working on the details of fundamentals like footwork and body positioning, or all of the above. Without being physically on the floor with the guys this year, you must be getting a doctorate level education in the behind the scenes preparation that goes into coaching at the NBA level. Stop by blazersedge.com if you'd like to see what the true Blazer fans are talking about. We'd love it if you'd give your perspective.
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- rat_bastird replied November 15, 2007
  
  well... most are true fans. The newbies seem a bit harsh with rather unrealistic expectations. Ah well.
kristenschell said November 03, 2007

My boyfriend is a die hard Blazer fan and loves you, in a manly sort of way. Sure he was sadden by you not playing this season, but the not so far off future looks bright for the team and you. Every Blazer Fan here in Portland FREAKED out when they got you. Just focus on getting better and try not to be depressed, it won't help much in the way of recovery. You're awesome :)
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Bargnani4MVP said November 04, 2007

Even though you injured dawg you mus be proud of the Blazers, them boys have come out and shown the league they're not a joke, Oden or no Oden. I'm expecting playoffs next year, keep ya head up and we'll see you in '08-'09
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MacTheBlaze said November 04, 2007

Hey GO. I just heard that some people have been giving you a hard time about the injury. Don't let it get you down, bro. Knee's happen. Just get better, keep ya head up, and scout the league that you will dominate next year. Also, I gotta convince you to buy a house in the Northeast part of Portland. That's where it really goes down.
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patticake said November 04, 2007

Greg, one of the reason why I'm a fan for life is the fact that you are a genuinely caring person. Continue to support your teammates but mainly take care of your health.....one day soon we will be celebrating that championship ring that you and your teammates earned. What a day of celebration that will be.....can't hardly wait.
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beavfan said November 05, 2007

Hi Greg. I am a writer for an established NBA Blog website, and I am writing a story on your recovery, from the perspective of how hard it is for a young athlete such as yourself to not be able to play. Would you be interested in contributing to the story, either by e-mail or by a brief phone interview?

If you are, please send me an e-mail and I will explain the specifics of the story. Thanks for taking the time to read this.
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anhoba said November 05, 2007

Yes, it is difficult to watch them and hear the announcers talk about you - but, it's also something we're looking forward to...the day you do get to play. It gives me goose-bumps to think about you being announced and walking out onto the floor in your uniform. It's gonna be AWESOME! However, in the meantime, you have all of us here to help you through the tough times... so write and keep us informed as to how you're doing!!! How's CBMcLovin?! My dog just recovered from knee surgery and just got back life outside of his crate... it's been tough road back, but, the end result was worth the wait! Hang in There!!! ;0)
Hope to see you on opening night!!!
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AnotherBuckeye said November 05, 2007

If anyone is fortunate enough to sit near the scorers table next year in Portland, make sure you have a healthy supply of Sour Patch Kids!! Greg, it was great watching you at tOSU and you may very well spark my interest in the NBA once again.

Everyone wants to see you match up against the premier big men in the league, I think it'll be interesting to see you play against Mike Conley next year.
Good luck to you, hang in there!
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soulboldrum said November 06, 2007

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soulboldrum said November 06, 2007

Hey there Greg!
Nice video chops....you have such a relaxed way with spinning a story and I look forward to the next one you bring to us.
Just keep plugging along with your rehab and don't get too down about things....please take your time and know that you are being supported by all that blog here and come to the games.
You are a breath of fresh air with your genial attitude and great vibe, and to just talk to the people, like you are doing helps us, the fans, heal some prominent wounds with the demise of what was "Thugville" around here for a long while.
I was tired of it, along with many of your current fanbase.
I would venture a guess that if you just go out there and give your honest effort, then people will be happy and enamoured with your output. I don't expect you to win your championship the first time out of the gate when you return. I would just be satisfied with this team being the lights that they are, as to communing /interacting with the fans, and just being generally good human beings.
Take care and good luck with your future here in Portland.
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Typod1 said November 07, 2007

Keep your head up! We all know what coming back too early could mean...
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ignarus said November 12, 2007

It's awesome that you've got a blog going here. Just try to be keep patient - it might seem like a long time to wait, but you've got years and years ahead of you! Just keep getting mentally better and learning the game and come back when your body's good and ready!
Best of luck - I look forward to seeing you play on the East coast when I'm out of med school and done with my residency 5 or 6 years from now :)
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mikemorris89 said November 12, 2007

hey greg, this isn't really about this article, but i heard you were trying to move out of tualitan and into a place closer to downtown that isn't as boring. Well, inner northeast portland, specifically the irvington district is really close to the rose garden and just a short drive or max ride from downtown with good-sized houses that you won't find in the hearts of downtown. great place to walk too, really close to Grant High School, the best high school in the city, a place you could live for the rest of your life, plus you know everyone in north east loves Greg Oden. talk to kendall about living in the NEP
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britneyrose said November 17, 2007

I know that I'm way late in commenting on this blog but I just want you to know that all of Portland KNOWS for a fact that you are worth the wait, and we still love you! Just keep working on getting back to your healthy self, and stay happy!
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