<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post"> He watched a last-second shot beat him in the third overtime Tuesday, and Rick Barnes reacted as if he had won. He smiled broadly as he walked toward the Oklahoma State bench, and then he reached for as many handshakes as there were hands. That's the look of a coach who had just seen the best of college basketball and didn't mind celebrating that. But it was also the look of someone who has seen firsthand the best formula for getting a young team ready for the NCAA tournament. Barnes will lose Kevin Durant this spring to the NBA. Going by this loss, though, Barnes also has a chance to keep him. Maybe until late March. The game was less about Texas' tournament chances than it was about the sport. ESPN quickly anointed it an instant classic, which is some honor. In a glorified programming move, the game will air again today. A repeat isn't necessary to showcase Durant, because the word is out. His name went across the country Tuesday, as if he had never existed until that moment. "Better than Oden?" an ESPN show asked, and several NBA scouts already wonder. Greg Oden, the 7-footer at Ohio State, might very well be the No.1 pick next June, but one scout, after watching Tuesday, isn't sure. "It's too early to draw conclusions," he said. "But now, after what Durant has done, it's not hard to see him as a top-five player in the NBA someday." There's never been a better player at Texas, or a better package of pure, basketball gifts. He's a cross between Kevin Garnett (length and agility) and Tracy McGrady (3-point shooting and ball handling). That's how Durant almost averages his number (35) in the Big 12. Better yet, Durant even has some Tim Duncan in him. When everyone expects him to simply jump over defenders, Durant will turn away from a double team and drop step for a layup. He also has Duncan's personality. He does not flash any ego except when he wants the ball at the end of a game, which is appropriate, and he prefers to talk about the other guys on his team. Among Durant's unassuming yet unbelievable statements: that the Texas point guard, D.J. Augustin, was really the most important recruit in this freshmen class. Augustin impresses, too, with a change of pace that reminds of Tony Parker. He might also be a pro someday, but for now he provides some order for Durant. </div> Source
<div class="quote_poster">NTC187 Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">I dont even think Oden will come out this season</div> Why not?
Well I saw an interview with him in which he said he values education over everything else, and I remember hearing him say that he would like to spend at least a couple of seasons at college. Plus I just dont think he is NBA ready yet, he has been impressive yes, but he hasnt been as dominant as everyone thought on the college level yet, granted he isnt 100% fit, but I think at least a couple of seasons at college will benefit him more. Dont get me wrong, i'd love to see Oden come out this year, I just personally dont think it will happen, although money talks I guess, so you never know.
A big reason is injuries. What would happen if he stays and breaks a leg? I dont think he would take that chance.
Well that could happen to any player, and its hardly a reason to declare earlier than what you possibly should.
<div class="quote_poster">NTC187 Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">Well I saw an interview with him in which he said he values education over everything else, and I remember hearing him say that he would like to spend at least a couple of seasons at college. Plus I just dont think he is NBA ready yet, he has been impressive yes, but he hasnt been as dominant as everyone thought on the college level yet, granted he isnt 100% fit, but I think at least a couple of seasons at college will benefit him more. Dont get me wrong, i'd love to see Oden come out this year, I just personally dont think it will happen, although money talks I guess, so you never know.</div> I highly doubt that, because if it wasn't for the age limit, he would be in Toronto right now.
I sincerely doubt Oden stays. He's just going to be better and better as the season goes on, and once that splint is off that right hand, watch out. He's averaging 14/10 as it is, and those numbers will definitely shoot up. As for Durant going over him, doubtful. Durant may have more potential, but Oden is best center that we've seen in college since Shaq. If it wasn't for that injury, he'd have even more impressive stats. He goes first, regardless of who gets the pick.
I tend to agree with NTC,Oden is sure to go on to a long,lucrative NBA career,but really does not need to rush. Short of getting run over by a train,there are not that many injuries that would not be repairable. If he broke his leg next week,he'd still be picked #1 or #2 even if he might miss some of his rookie year. Entering the NBA with a bit more strength and skill can mean he's a starter from day one and actually reaches his peak a bit faster. Also....There are some sweet co-eds at OSU,classier than the hotel lobby bimbos he will meet once a pro.
