Butler’s basketball scene is stirring with news that Greg Oden, the 2007 NBA Draft’s No. 1 pick, is stepping down from his assistant coach role. The former Ohio State star, who joined Butler’s staff under coach Thad Matta in 2022, is leaving behind an underwhelming tenure. The question now: where will Oden land next, and who will fill his sizable shoes?
NBA Draft’s No. 1 Pick Bows Out: What’s Next for Greg Oden?
In the wake of Oden’s departure, Butler is setting its sights on Connor McCaffery, currently an assistant with the Indiana Pacers. McCaffery, who has been with the Pacers for just over a year, is a familiar name with a promising pedigree. He’d not only bring his coaching experience but also a personal connection—he’d be closer to his brother Patrick, a new recruit at Butler, and his girlfriend, Caitlin Clark, the No. 1 pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft.
McCaffery’s move to Butler could be a double-edged sword. On one hand, he’d be closer to family, with his younger brother Jack also committed to the Bulldogs and Patrick joining the team this year. On the other hand, it would mean leaving a stable position with the Pacers, where he’s just begun to make his mark.
Greg Oden’s career has been a rollercoaster of shattered dreams. Drafted first overall by the Portland Trail Blazers, Oden’s journey was marred by chronic knee injuries that cut his playing days short. Once a promising NBA star, his career fizzled out, leading him to coaching as a way to stay connected to the sport. Despite his illustrious college career where he led Ohio State to the national championship, his NBA legacy is a cautionary tale of what could have been.
Oden’s time at Butler began in April 2022 as the director of basketball operations before he transitioned to an assistant coaching role. His journey from the bright lights of the NBA to the coaching sidelines is a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of sports careers. With Oden’s departure, Butler faces a crucial decision in finding a worthy successor.
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