By: Aaron Smith (KYKernel.com) -

While John Calipari is widely regarded as the primary proponent of the one-and-done player, he’s not alone.

Ohio State head coach Thad Matta is right there with him. Freshmen Greg Oden and Mike Conley led the Buckeyes to the national title game in 2006-07. This year’s version, ranked No. 1 in the country, has three freshmen (Jared Sullinger, Aaron Craft and Deshaun Thomas) playing essential parts.

“I can relate to the job he’s gone through,” Matta said. “Nobody knows how hard it is. The thing is you have great talent, but you have to coach these guys. It’s a lot easier said than done.”

The biggest issue Matta sees with freshmen stars comes at the end of the season. Right when wins are the most crucial, some will get caught looking ahead – to the NBA Draft, to shoe deals, to a bigger stage than…..

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