Chat with Trail Blazers' Greg Oden

After being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 NBA draft, Oden missed all of last season with an injury. This season, Oden has started 37 of the 45 games in which he's played. The Blazers have already won 32 games this season after winning 41 last year.
Oden is teaming up with Spalding, the official basketball and backboard of the NBA, to announce the latest technological breakthrough in basketball systems with the unveiling of the first ever iHoop.
The revolutionary iHoop is the world's first basketball system with a fully integrated docking station designed specifically for most iPod models and compatible with most MP3 players. Featuring a 30-watt, 2.1-stereo sound system with marine grade speakers, the iHoop brings premium sound right to your driveway.
Send in your questions now and then join Oden at 2:45 p.m. ET on Friday!
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Buzzmaster (2:18 PM)
We just got word that Greg might actually be running a few minutes early! Get those questions in NOW!
Buzzmaster (2:18 PM)
We're expecting him closer to 2:40 instead of 2:45.
Dan (Lawrence, KS) [via mobile]
How does life in the Pacific Northwest compare to the Midwest?
Greg Oden (2:39 PM)
Last year was different, because all it did was rain. This year is kind of the same, we have a lot of snow.
Andy (Boston)
You seem more mobile than you were at the beggining of the season. Do your legs feel stronger now than they did when the season started?
Greg Oden (2:40 PM)
I feel a lot more in shape. Me being in shape allows me to be more mobile and do better things, make bigger plays.
Chad (St. George, UT)
Which center gives you the toughest matchup? And when can I expect to see these iHoops?
Greg Oden (2:40 PM)
They'll be out this summer. I 've been partnered up with Spalding for a while now. I know they'll let me get one of these things for my mom's house. I'm excited about that.
Dave (DC)
Greg, what does Portland need to do to contend for a title in the next year or two?
Greg Oden (2:41 PM)
We'll get smarter and more mature. And try to keep us together.
Brandon (PDX)
Greg, Everyone knows about your ESPN commericial, but your performances in local car dealership ads have been scintillating to say the least. Once your done with ball, are there any aspirations to take your acting game to the silver screen?
Greg Oden (2:42 PM)
I haven't really thought about that. I'm still in the early part of my career. I'll start thinking about that in the end.
Ryan (Wilmington, DE)
Greg, why are you always so photogenic? what's the secret?
Greg Oden (2:42 PM)
I wish I was always photogenic. I think differently. I guess I should thank you for the complement.
Tony (Indianapolis)
With HS boys basketball winding down here in Indiana, who is your favorite to win the state championship?
Greg Oden (2:43 PM)
I follow my team, but I heard Bloomington South has a pretty good team.
Alex (Eugene, OR)
Your dunks are so ferocious they leave the entire basket swaying. Have you ever broken a rim/backboard?
Greg Oden (2:43 PM)
I have not. That's why my dunks are so hard, I've been trying to. I try hard every time.
Brett (Boyertown, PA)
What's it like playing on a team with a shooter like Brandon Roy?
Greg Oden (2:44 PM)
It's awesome. He makes up for a lot of mistakes, with him being an all star. It helps us in so many different ways.
Tyler (Medford, OR)
How are you dealing with the pressure of your rookie year? Is it what you expected
Greg Oden (2:45 PM)
I expected to be playing a little bit better. Or more consistently playing better. But it's cool, being out there playing. But I expect more out of myself.
Matt
Greg, what areas of your game do you think you need to work on the most? Thanks
Greg Oden (2:45 PM)
I always say every aspect of my game. But most definitely me improving offensively would help. And defensively, improving there and closing down on the paint.
adam (nm) [via mobile]
Would you like to be on an nba live cover?
Greg Oden (2:46 PM)
It would definitely be an honor. When you're one of the best you get to do that.
Kev (NYC)
How did Thad Matta convince you to goto Ohio St?
Greg Oden (2:46 PM)
It was him, I loved him as a coach. But also the school, the city of Columbus. He's one of the best coaches I've had.
Jim (Portland, OR)
What's your favorite place to be in Portland - besides the Rose Garden?
Greg Oden (2:47 PM)
My house. I do like to go bowling a lot. Every now and then you can catch me there.
Greg Oden (2:47 PM)
Thanks for being fans. It was good talking to you all for a quick second.
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