[bucknut11]

Greg Oden became only the second junior ever to be named USA TODAY National Player of the year....

2005 High school boys All-USA basketball team PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Greg Oden, 7-0, center, Lawrence North, Indianapolis

Just the stats: Averaged 20 points, 9.6 rebounds and 3.7 blocked shots, helping No. 6 Lawrence North win its second consecutive Class 4A state championship. A junior, he is only the second underclassman named USA TODAY's player of the year (the first was LeBron James in 2002). Will participate in the USA Basketball Festival and was named Gatorade's player of the year.


College choices: Indiana, Ohio State, Michigan State and Wake Forest.

Favorite class and teacher? Algebra/Donna Chamberlain.

In 10 years I want to be doing what? "Successful and happy in my chosen profession (not necessarily basketball)."

Tell us about your first dunk: "I was in seventh grade and just shooting around at Sarah Scott Middle School. It drew rim, but I put it down."

Greatest fear: Car accidents. "Abrupt stops really shake me."

Food you absolutely can't stand: Onions.

NBA player who reminds you of yourself: Ben Wallace. "First and foremost, he's a rebounder and shot blocker.

Why do you wear No. 50? "The higher numbers were always assigned to the taller players."

Should there be an age limit in the NBA: "No way, because if a kid can play, why deny him his chance."

Best movie you've seen lately?Guess Who.

This summer I'm going to be: "Working on my game and playing AAU ball with Spiece Indy Heat."