Childhood and Education Journey of DeMarcus Cousins in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 25, 2025

Discover the defining moments in the early life of DeMarcus Cousins. From birth to education, explore key events.

DeMarcus Cousins, nicknamed "Boogie", is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the Selenge Bodons in Mongolia. He played college basketball at Kentucky, earning All-American honors before being drafted fifth overall by the Sacramento Kings in 2010. Cousins was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in his first season. He was a four-time NBA All-Star from 2015-2018. He also won two gold medals representing the United States national team: one at the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup and another at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

August 13, 1990: DeMarcus Cousins Born

On August 13, 1990, DeMarcus Amir Cousins was born. He is an American professional basketball player.

Others born on this day/year

February 28, 2008: Commitment to Alabama-Birmingham

On February 28, 2008, DeMarcus Cousins initially committed to Alabama-Birmingham but did not sign a letter of intent.

March 9, 2009: Commitment to Memphis

On March 9, 2009, DeMarcus Cousins decommitted from UAB and committed to Memphis.

April 7, 2009: Commitment to Kentucky

On April 7, 2009, DeMarcus Cousins decided to follow John Calipari to Kentucky.

2009: High School Achievements

In 2009, DeMarcus Cousins was named a first-team Parade All-American and played in the 2009 McDonald's All-American Boys Game, finishing with 14 points and 8 rebounds. He also participated in the 2009 Nike Hoop Summit and the Jordan Brand Classic.

2010: All-American Honors and NBA Draft

In 2010, DeMarcus Cousins earned consensus second-team All-American honors while playing college basketball for the Kentucky Wildcats. He was later selected with the fifth overall pick in the 2010 NBA draft by the Sacramento Kings.

2010: NCAA Tournament Elite Eight

In 2010, led by DeMarcus Cousins and John Wall, the Kentucky Wildcats reached the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament.

January 5, 2012: Westphal fired from Kings

On January 5, 2012, Paul Westphal was fired from the Kings, with many believing that his relationship with DeMarcus Cousins was a contributing factor.

December 24, 2012: Suspension Lifted

On December 24, 2012, DeMarcus Cousins' indefinite suspension from the Sacramento Kings was lifted.

March 2014: Apology to Sean Elliott

In March 2014, DeMarcus Cousins apologized to Sean Elliott in person before a game against the Spurs.

December 7, 2014: Diagnosis of Viral Meningitis

On December 7, 2014, DeMarcus Cousins was diagnosed with viral meningitis and missed 10 games.

January 26, 2018: Achilles tendon injury

On January 26, 2018, DeMarcus Cousins suffered a torn left Achilles tendon in the final seconds of the Pelicans' win against the Houston Rockets, which ended his season.

July 6, 2018: Signed with Golden State Warriors

On July 6, 2018, DeMarcus Cousins signed a one-year deal with the Golden State Warriors for $5.3 million, accepting their mid-level exception after considering offers from other teams.

December 10, 2018: Assigned to Santa Cruz Warriors

On December 10, 2018, DeMarcus Cousins was assigned to the Santa Cruz Warriors, Golden State's G League affiliate, for his first full-contact practice since his Achilles injury.