DeMarcus Cousins, once regarded as one of the premier big men in the NBA, has officially announced his retirement from the league after a tumultuous career filled with highs and lows. Despite being only 33 years old, Cousins has decided to close the chapter on his NBA journey, citing a contentment with life beyond basketball and a desire to explore new opportunities outside of the sport.
“Honestly, no. I know I’ve had my time there. You know, there was a point where I was trying to make that happen. But the place I’m in my life now, just with everything I’ve got going on, just outside of basketball, like I’m in a good place. So, like I said, I’m excited for what I have ahead and my future.”
“You know, my 12 years in the league were a small chapter or chapters in my life. And, I’m ready to move on to the next and see what’s in store for me.”
DeMarcus Cousins on making a return to the NBA in the near future: "Honestly, no. I know I’ve had my time there. You know, there was a point where I was trying to make that happen. But the place I’m in my life now, just with everything I’ve got going on, just outside of… pic.twitter.com/poGVzF75U7
— HoopsHype (@hoopshype) February 23, 2024
In a candid interview, Cousins expressed his acceptance of the situation, acknowledging that his time in the NBA has come to an end. He reflected on his 12-year career in the league as a small chapter in his life and expressed excitement for the future.
Cousins’ decision comes after years of battling injuries and struggling to find a stable role on an NBA roster. Despite being fully healthy and showcasing his skills in leagues abroad, including stints in Puerto Rico and Taiwan, Cousins has been unable to secure a spot with any of the NBA’s 30 teams.
One of the most frustrating aspects of Cousins’ NBA journey has been the lack of clarity surrounding his absence from the league. Despite his efforts to reach out to former teams and seek honest feedback, Cousins has never received a definitive answer as to why he has been unable to secure a roster spot.
This lack of transparency has been a source of frustration for Cousins, who has emphasized the importance of receiving honest feedback in order to improve and move forward.
Throughout his career, Cousins showcased immense talent and potential, averaging impressive numbers during his time in the league. Despite facing adversity and enduring numerous setbacks, Cousins remained determined and resilient, continuing to pursue his passion for the game.
While his NBA career may have come to an end, Cousins leaves behind a legacy filled with memorable performances and contributions to the sport. As he embarks on the next chapter of his life, fans and colleagues alike are sure to remember Cousins as a fierce competitor and a true talent on the basketball court.
The NBA Failed DeMarcus Cousins
The NBA failed DeMarcus Cousins, a player once considered among the elite in the league. Despite being a four-time All-Star and a two-time All-NBA selection, Cousins’ career took a sharp downturn due to injuries and the narrative surrounding him.
During his prime years, Cousins was a dominant force on the court, averaging over 22 points per game for six consecutive seasons before the age of 28. His best statistical season came with the Sacramento Kings, where he averaged an impressive 27.8 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game while shooting 45.1% from the field and 35.6% from beyond the arc.
Additionally, his tenure with the New Orleans Pelicans showcased his versatility, with his second season there being particularly noteworthy, averaging 25.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, 5.4 assists, and 1.6 blocks per game on efficient shooting percentages.
However, injuries plagued Cousins, culminating in a career-altering injury that derailed his trajectory. Despite displaying glimpses of his former self in subsequent stints with various teams, including the Golden State Warriors and the Houston Rockets, Cousins struggled to find a permanent home in the NBA.
The narrative surrounding Cousins and his perceived attitude issues, combined with concerns about his durability, contributed to his premature exit from the league. Despite his proven talent and ability to contribute on the court, teams were hesitant to take a chance on him, ultimately driving him out of the NBA.
In hindsight, it’s evident that the NBA and the media failed Cousins by perpetuating a narrative that overshadowed his on-court contributions. As a result, one of the league’s most talented big men was unable to fulfill his potential, leaving fans to wonder what could have been if circumstances had been different.
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