Greg Oden practices with Heat, which marks the first time in four years he not play in a game, but hits the practice court and its way the back-to-back defending NBA champions in Miami.

What more could the Heat need to go for the three-peat, but maybe the former first-overall pick in the NBA draft in Greg Oden. Training camp opened up Tuesday and the former standout at Ohio was there to be with the team.

Greg Oden took part in about half of the practice with LeBron James Dwayne Wade and the Miami Heat, but that still was a significant step forward as he attempts a long-shot comeback after not playing since December 2009 because of chronic knee problems.

"It felt good just being out there," Oden told ESPN. "First time in a while, I'm happy I got it completed. They had to pull me off the floor. But I've got to take steps."

While the team scrimmaged, Oden was on the sidelines with ice bags on his knees. He hasn't been cleared for contact just yet. There is also no timetable for his return to game-action.

"It's step by step, practice by practice, minute by minute," coach Erik Spoelstra said. "It was a big bonus to have him out there. We'll meet with the trainers and see how he reacts and go from there."

Oden signed a one-year deal with a guaranteed contract of slightly less than $900,000.  He's only 25-years-old.