Greg Oden has returned to Ohio State as a student-coach.

Oden played in China last season after dealing with a number of injuries in the NBA. Oden underwent multiple microfracture knee surgeries and other issues. Oden last played in the NBA during the 13-14 season with the Miami Heat.

"I wanted to stay around basketball and coach gave me a lifeline to be here," Oden told the Indianapolis Star on Thursday. "To give me something to do with my afternoons.

"I'm still trying to figure out my life. Since I've been in fourth grade, all I've known was basketball. I'm just trying to better myself and work on my degree and set something up for the future of my family."

Oden is now 28 and acknowledges his playing career is over.

"I wish," Oden told the Star. "It's over."

Oden was the first overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft, leaving Ohio State after his freshman season. Oden is now a sophomore in college and majoring in the sports industry.

"I wouldn't say I regret anything," Oden said. "I would say I just wish I did things better."