Greg Oden was the number one overall pick of the 2007 NBA draft. He was selected before Kevin Durant. He missed his entire first year. His second year in the league, or “rookie” year was injury riddled. In 21.5 minutes per game he ONLY averaged 8.9 points 56% shooting and 7 rebounds.

Everyone is saying he is a bust, Sam Bowie version 2.0. He has already endured a lot for a 21 year old.

"I will get all of you media folks of my back. Bet!" (Credit: picapp.com)

Is there anyone out there who will give this kid a break?

Oden returned to Ohio State University this summer to attend summer classes and get his mind right. He is training rigorously, and hoping this is the year where he turns the corner while improving upon his rookie season.

And how will he do this?

He started seeing a sports psychologist in order to help him put things in perspective. If successful, he will not let pressure caused by media pundits overwhelming his psyche.

Fact: A loose and relaxed Oden could be very dangerous.

"Hope ya'll are ready for more of this!" (Credit: picapp.com)

He is looking and feeling good. He is getting in shape, increasing his cardio and has already dropped down from 300 to 285. His knee is pain free. Less weight equates to faster moves with more explosiveness, and a new lease on an NBA career.

He is finally medically cleared to take his conditioning and strengthening seriously. He is going to be fiercely explosive. Bill Bayno and Brian Grant are also rebuilding Oden’s mind and body. Grant is an emotional leader to Oden, having to battle with Parksinsons. He knows the NBA ropes, and spent his entire career working harder than his opposition. Bayno has a reputation for yielding results and overcoming personal demons.

But what about the next injury?

Weight training and strengthening not only helps one recover from injury, but it also helps prevent them. A newly found confidence, leaner build, and overall stronger Oden will take the league by storm this season.

"Brandon, watch your head!" (Credit: picapp.com)

Now that the mind is right, the body well maintained, Oden can relax, and make his mark in the NBA.