This week, many NBA fans are asking: what happened to DeMarcus Cousins? Once a dominant force, his career took a detour. This article delves into his journey.
The Rise of "Boogie": What Happened to DeMarcus Cousins?
DeMarcus "Boogie" Cousins exploded onto the NBA scene as the fifth overall pick in the 2010 NBA draft, selected by the Sacramento Kings. His raw talent was undeniable. A 6'10", 270-pound behemoth with guard-like skills, Cousins quickly established himself as one of the league's premier centers. He could score inside and out, rebound ferociously, and even displayed impressive passing vision. His time with the Kings, though often mired in team struggles, showcased his immense individual potential. Many believed he was destined for superstardom. During his tenure in Sacramento, questions arose about his maturity and on-court demeanor, but his skill was never in doubt. What happened to DeMarcus Cousins' promising career?
Injury Devastation: What Happened to DeMarcus Cousins?
The turning point, and arguably the central answer to the question "what happened to DeMarcus Cousins?" came in January 2018. Playing for the New Orleans Pelicans alongside Anthony Davis, Cousins was having a career year, averaging 25.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists. He looked poised to lead the Pelicans deep into the playoffs. Tragically, in a game against the Houston Rockets, Cousins suffered a devastating Achilles tendon tear. This injury is notoriously difficult for basketball players to fully recover from, especially big men who rely on explosive power. This marked the beginning of a challenging period, significantly impacting his mobility and agility. This injury changed everything. What happened to DeMarcus Cousins after this?
Bouncing Around the League: What Happened to DeMarcus Cousins?
Following his Achilles injury, Cousins became a journeyman, signing short-term deals with several teams including the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Denver Nuggets. While he flashed moments of his former brilliance, he was never quite the same dominant player. Another significant setback occurred before he even played a game for the Lakers, when he tore his ACL during a workout in August 2019. This further hampered his recovery and ability to regain his previous form. Each stop offered a glimmer of hope, but his health continued to be a limiting factor. This constant team turnover made it difficult for him to find consistent playing time and develop chemistry with his teammates. It was a sad end for someone with so much potential. So, what happened to DeMarcus Cousins' chances to return to top form?
Recent Years and Future Outlook: What Happened to DeMarcus Cousins?
In recent years, DeMarcus Cousins has played professionally overseas, joining the Taiwan Beer Leopards in 2024. This move suggests a shift in focus towards extending his career and playing competitively, even if it's outside the NBA. While a full-scale return to NBA prominence seems unlikely given his injury history and age, it's important to remember the sheer talent and impact he had at his peak. He remains a cautionary tale about the fragility of an athlete's career and how unforeseen injuries can drastically alter the trajectory of even the most promising stars. Many still fondly recall his dominant performances and wonder "what if?" What happened to DeMarcus Cousins, and what does the future hold for him? He's writing a new chapter in his career abroad, while NBA fans continue to remember his legacy.
DeMarcus Cousins: Q&A
Q: What was DeMarcus Cousins' best year? A: Arguably, his best statistical year was with the New Orleans Pelicans in 2017-2018 before his Achilles injury.
Q: Why did DeMarcus Cousins never win a championship? A: A combination of factors including playing on teams that weren't championship contenders, injuries, and short stints with various teams.
Q: Is DeMarcus Cousins retired? A: No, he's currently playing professionally in Taiwan.
Q: Will DeMarcus Cousins ever play in the NBA again? A: It's unlikely, but not impossible. It would likely be in a limited role.
Q: What happened to DeMarcus Cousins that derailed his career? A: Primarily, a devastating Achilles tendon tear in 2018 followed by an ACL tear in 2019.
Who is DeMarcus Cousins?
DeMarcus Amir Cousins (born August 13, 1990) is an American professional basketball player. A highly touted prospect, he played college basketball for the Kentucky Wildcats before being drafted into the NBA. He is known for his dominant inside game, rebounding prowess, and ability to score both in the paint and from the perimeter. While he has faced challenges with injuries and on-court conduct, his talent is undeniable, and he remains a notable figure in NBA history.
Summary: DeMarcus Cousins, once a dominant NBA center, suffered career-altering injuries, including an Achilles tendon tear and ACL tear, leading to a journeyman career and eventually playing overseas. Key questions are: What were his best years? What derailed his career? Is he retired? The answer: Injuries were the primary cause, his best statistical year was with the Pelicans before his Achilles injury, and he's currently playing in Taiwan.
Keywords: DeMarcus Cousins, NBA, Injury, Achilles, ACL, Basketball, Sacramento Kings, New Orleans Pelicans, Golden State Warriors, Lakers, Clippers, Bucks, Nuggets, Taiwan, Career, Boogie Cousins, what happened to demarcus cousins