Recruit Spotlight: DeMarcus Cousins

Closer Look at DeMarcus Cousins

By: Chad Brendel

Cousins comes to Kentucky as the #2 ranked player in the 2009 class, and for good reason. Most big men come in to college with a high level of skill on the defensive end, but a lot of work to do on offense. Issues like footwork, post moves, passing and expanding a mid range game are almost always a concern. Cousins is one of the few exceptions to the rule.

He's a very fluid athlete who is comfortable with his back to the basket, working the high post and even attacking the rim from the wing. He is without a doubt the ideal big man for the DDM offense as he can pull bigger, slower defenders away from the basket or can take a smaller opponent down on the blocks and score with a variety of moves using either hand. Cousins also has a soft touch on his jumper with range out to the three point line, and can use that to blow by a defender once they have to respect his ability from distance.

While listed as a C, it would make more sense to see him playing more like a PF if Patrick Patterson returns for his JR season in Coach Calipari's system. Patterson would be the power player working the weak side block with Cousins on the wing or in the high post rotating through the motion based system. His size and skill set bring a very rare blend for a big man in an open and flowing system, and it's the reason why Cousins was intent on playing for Calipari.

While the reviews are glowing about his offensive game, there is some work to do on his defense and rebounding. He's more like a wing player in that regard, but given his pure talent level, it shouldn't be an issue as long as he makes improvement in those areas a priority.

Chad Brendel
Recruiting Analyst
http://www.bearcatlair.com/

Image: Courier Journal