DeMarcus Cousins has been Zion Williamson, has been an NCAA star with a bright future and without a paycheck. And he doesn’t want Williamson to follow his own path — of continuing to play. At least, that was the PG-13 version of his rant.
“Knowing what I know now? College is bulls–t. College basketball, the NCAA is [expletive],” the Warriors forward and former Kentucky star told reporters on Thursday, when asked his suggestion for the Duke phenom who sprained his right knee Wednesday. “My advice for him is do what’s best for you and your family. Obviously, college isn’t. It does nothing for you at this point. You’ve proven you’re the No. 1 pick coming out, you’ve proven your talent. Get ready for the next level, because it’s happening. That’s my opinion, knowing what I know now.
“Obviously when I was at that age, you know, you enjoy the moment, you enjoy the experience and all that. But it’s so many risks involved to get to the ultimate goal, which is this level.”
It remains uncertain how long Williamson will be out. The 6-foot-7, 285-pound freak athlete had led Duke to the No. 1 ranking in the country before suffering the injury in the opening minute of the Blue Devils’ 88-72 loss to No. 8 North Carolina at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Many have suggested Williamson, the almost-certain No. 1 pick in the draft, not return when healthy, and risk further injury. Cousins may be the loudest part of that group.
“I loved my experience in college, that was some of the best years of my life playing basketball,” the one-and-doner said. “But with that being said, just how crooked the whole NCAA business is, [he shouldn’t come back].”