Blake Griffin, the first number one pick to come from Oklahoma, says that he is ready to begin his career across the country.

The 20-year-old took the stage at Madison Square Garden last Thursday as the NBA’s top draft choice, having been selected by the Los Angeles Clippers.

The Clippers general manager is more than happy about their selection.

“We feel like Blake definitely is a sure thing,” commented Mike Dunleavy, the team general manager and coach.

Griffin was the college player of the year after leading the nation with 14.4 rebounds per game and 22.7 points per game for the Oklahoma Sooners.

The Clippers confirmed that they would select the 6-foot-10, 251-pound forward when they drew the first pick in the lottery last month.

“I felt pretty solid, but I kept saying in the back of my mind, ‘Don’t get too comfortable because something could happen,’” Griffin said. “I tried to stay ready.”

Griffin recorded 30 double-doubles to lead the nation. He shot over 65 percent from the floor and grabbed 504 rebounds, giving him the highest season total since Larry Bird recorded 505 rebounds in the 1978-79 at Indiana State.

“The fact is we're getting an incredible player, incredible person, an impeccable work ethic and a guy that we plan on having in L.A. for many years to come,” Dunleavy said. “He's going to be a great, exciting fit for our ballclub.”

Griffin hugged his parents in front of a capacity crowd in New York, then he took the stage and shook hands with NBA commissioner David Stern. He’s expected to join the Clippers on Monday.

"I'm ready to show the fans of L.A. what I can do," he said.