This week’s guest is DeMarcus "Boogie" Cousins, a four-time NBA All-Star known for his dominant play and time overseas. He shares his journey from high school stardom to choosing Kentucky to play under Coach Calipari. Cousins reflects on his early days in Sacramento, the formidable 2018 Pelicans team, and the impact of injuries on his career. He also opens up about the joy of continuing to play basketball for love and the unique experiences he's had while competing internationally.
DeMarcus Cousins reflects on his swift rise to fame in high school basketball, highlighting the pressures of early success and expectations.
Throughout his career, Boogie emphasizes the importance of mentorship, noting how veterans like Reggie Evans played pivotal roles in his development.
Cousins discusses the mental resilience required to navigate injuries in the NBA, revealing how personal sacrifices motivated him to strive for success.
The former All-Star shares the joy of winning a gold medal with Team USA, marking it as a significant achievement in his basketball journey.
Deep dives
Journey to the League
The transition from football to basketball began during seventh grade when a coach discovered the player's potential and encouraged him to join AAU basketball. Initially hesitant due to trust issues stemming from his upbringing, he eventually embraced the sport and quickly found success. By eighth grade, he gained confidence as he realized his skills, ultimately culminating in being ranked as the number one freshman in the country by the end of his freshman year. This rapid rise to prominence came with difficulties, including adjusting to heightened attention and expectations while navigating the pressure of the sport.
Formative Experiences with OGs
Throughout his early career, the player faced tough competition and learned valuable lessons from seasoned veterans, notably Reggie Evans, who helped him develop his strength and game strategy. Sharing his experiences with peers, the player emphasizes the importance of mentorship in navigating the challenges of professional basketball. Engaging with impactful figures in the league provided him with insights and tricks that were critical to refining his gameplay. These relationships established a foundation for his development both on and off the court.
Life in the NBA: Highs and Lows
Navigating the pressures of the NBA, the player emphasized the mental challenges faced during difficult times, particularly when experiencing multiple injuries. As he dealt with these setbacks, he reflected on the importance of resilience and maintaining a strong mental game to overcome obstacles. Winning a championship became a major driving force and source of motivation, leading him to seek opportunities in various leagues and continue playing the game he loves. He acknowledges the value of self-belief and determination in times of struggle, reinforcing the notion that personal sacrifices are often key to success.
Highlight Reel: All-Star Moments
The player recounted the unforgettable experience of playing in the All-Star Game, a milestone that validated his growth in the league. He appreciated the camaraderie and competitive spirit of sharing the court with elite athletes, recognizing the significance of being part of such an elite group. Despite the intense season leading to the All-Star selection, he took pride in his hard work paying off and contributing to a legendary roster. The recognition served as a reminder of his place in the game and fueled his motivation to continue striving for greatness.
Sacramento to Championship Dreams
After joining the Sacramento Kings, the player recalled the difficulties of adjusting to a constantly changing roster and coaching staff, impacting team chemistry. His tenure with the franchise was marked by frustration, as the instability made it challenging to build on the foundation of success. However, upon the opportunity to play alongside stars like Anthony Davis and Rajon Rondo on the Pelicans, he felt a resurgence and hope for a championship run. The camaraderie and skill sets of his teammates brought forth a palpable energy, re-invigorating his competitive spirit and belief in their potential.
Pursuit of Legacy: USA Basketball
Winning a gold medal with Team USA at the Olympics was a pivotal moment in the player's career, showcasing his growth and achievement at an international level. The opportunity to play alongside established stars broadened his experience and reinforced the pride of representing his country. The emotional impact of standing on the podium with gold medals around their necks was profound, symbolizing years of hard work and dedication. This achievement not only added to his accolades but served as a foundation for further development and aspirations in his basketball career.
Transitioning to Media and Mentorship
As the player embarks on a new chapter in his career, transitioning to media and sharing his story, he focuses on controlling his narrative and inspiring others. He values the platform to discuss his experiences, advocating for younger athletes facing similar struggles. Sharing insights on overcoming adversity, he emphasizes the importance of mentorship in fostering growth and development in aspiring players. This new role allows him to influence the next generation while remaining connected to the game he loves.
This week, we're joined by the one and only DeMarcus "BOOGIE" Cousins! The guys delve into Boogie's rise to high school hoops stardom and his decision to follow Coach Calipari to Kentucky. The four-time NBA All-Star reflects on his tenure with the Kings as well as the potential of that 2018 Pelicans squad with Rondo and AD. To cap it off, Boogie shares what it means to continue playing for the love of the game today and why he has fully embraced overseas basketball. Don't miss out on this episode — tune in!
Mobile, Alabama, picking up basketball in 7th grade, the pros and cons of HS success (3:15)
Committing to Kentucky, rookie year with John Wall, Wildcat Lodge and Midnight Madness (29:10)
“Boogie” nickname origin, declaring for the NBA draft, early days of Sacramento (40:30)
Coaching changes and rebuilding phases in Sacramento and Rondo’s immediate impact on Boogie's game (52:35)
All-Star games, the 2017-2018 Pelicans would've won it all, the KG “bloodline” (1:06:13)
Kobe reaching out after DeMarcus's injuries and winning a championship in Taiwan (1:18:10)
About Our Hosts:
NBA veterans Quentin Richardson and Darius Miles are lifelong friends and bona fide truth-tellers. Listen as they invite special guests, high-profile athletes, musicians and entertainers to get brutally honest about everything from current events to untold stories from the golden era of sports and culture. Named for the on-court celebration they made wildly popular, this unfiltered, hilarious and surprising podcast is like playing NBA 2K with no fouls.
