Following a standout defensive display in day one of Team USA’s training, DeMarcus Cousins’ day two was filled with notable moments, both offensively and defensively.
Cousins dominated the paint and the pick and roll, meshing extremely well in the two-man game with one of his mentors, three-time Olympian Carmelo Anthony. The duo was able to lock down the pick and roll and force several turnovers while executing the play to perfection on the offensive end.
“Just to be able to work with him on the daily, I believe it’s going to help me be a better player,” said DMC of the New York All-Star.
It wasn’t just Anthony that the Kings All-Star center was impressed with following Tuesday’s practice in Las Vegas, it was the entire National Team.
“I think we’re growing as a team. It’s all coming together slowly and I believe we’re on the right path.”
Team USA’s head coach Mike Krzyzewski agreed, specifically praising the path that Cousins has taken to reach his current state of play. The Team USA coach witnessed the 6-foot-11 center grow from a member of the 2012 USA Basketball Select Team to a 2014 World Cup participant and now, a 2016 Olympian.
“He's improved tremendously…I’m proud of the progress he’s made,” noted Kryzyzweski.
Despite strong showings in the initial days of the National Team’s camp, Boogie’s focus remains on one thing: growth.
“I’m trying to better myself as a player and a leader as a defensive anchor for our team – this team and the Kings.”
That next opportunity will come on Wednesday, as Cousins and the USABMNT will begin its third day of Training Camp to prepare for an exhibition matchup versus Argentina.
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