After eight games of Olympic play, DeMarcus Cousins stood proudly besides his teammates atop the podium at Carioca Arena in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday.
The NBA’s highest scoring center of 2015-16 took his game global to participate on the world’s biggest stage – an opportunity the 26-year-old had pursued since the start of his career.
Though foul trouble hindered Cousins’ performances at times, when the U.S. needed him most, No. 12 delivered. Boogie ended the finale with 13 points and 15 rebounds, but was quick to address the struggles along the way.
“Everybody had their own little adversity, we all overcame it and this is the best feeling ever,” said Cousins to FIBA.com following the U.S. victory. “We were engaged from start to finish. There was no looking back.”
Despite some on-court setbacks, DMC’s spirits remained high, often seen encouraging teammates, mimicking highlight moves or sharing a smile from the sidelines.
The passion that the first-time Olympian carried was noticeable to fellow Team USA members, including Head Coach Mike Krzyzewski.
“I think what a lot of people don’t know about DeMarcus is he’s a great teammate,” said Krzyzewski to Sacramento Bee’s Chris Kudialis. “He’s a very important part of our team and a guy we really count on inside.”
As the 18-day trip to Brazil came to a close, the All-Star center’s selflessness was on display following the team’s eighth and final victory.
“It wasn’t about me. It was about this hanging around my neck,” said Cousins of his shiny new souvenir.
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