Fifteen years after his standout season at the University of Kentucky, former NBA All-Star DeMarcus Cousins is making headlines again — not for his professional achievements, but for his powerful reflection on where his heart truly lies.
In a recent interview, Cousins opened up about his time in Lexington, calling it the best period of his basketball life. Despite a decorated NBA career that included multiple All-Star selections and stints with top-tier teams, the big man known as “Big Cuz” didn’t hesitate to crown his college days as the peak of his journey.
“My best years ever — no question,” Cousins said. “Kentucky was better than the NBA for me. The brotherhood, the loyalty, the fans — it was just different.”
Cousins, who played under John Calipari during the 2009-2010 season, helped lead a star-studded Wildcats team to an Elite Eight appearance. That squad, stacked with future NBA talent, quickly became one of the most talked-about teams in college basketball history.
“The UK fanbase is insane,” Cousins added. “It’s been 15 years, and they still support us like we were there last week. That kind of love is rare.”
His comments have sparked debate among fans and analysts, many of whom were surprised to hear such a strong preference for college over the professional stage. But for Cousins, the bond he formed with his teammates and the passionate support from the Kentucky faithful left an unforgettable mark.
“Once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat,” he said. “That’s not just a saying — it’s real.”
As Cousins continues to explore the next chapter of his career, one thing is clear: the blue and white of Kentucky still runs deep in his veins.
