Brittney Griner wants to play DeMarcus Cousins 1-on-1
Both USA basketball teams have handled the competition thus far in Rio. Now, Brittney Griner is issuing a challenge to one front-court counterpart in particular.
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Both USA Olympic basketball teams are overwhelming favorites to win gold in Rio. Even with the relatively close call the men’s team had against Australia Wednesday night, there just aren’t many challenges other countries can pose — whether to Coach Mike Krzyzewski and crew (now vying for a third consecutive gold) or the even more dominant women’s side (on pace for a sixth straight).
The ladies have gotten so bored, in fact, that WNBA star and U.S. Olympian Brittney Griner already has her eye on more worthy competition, issuing a one-on-one challenge to Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins.
From Sam Amick of USA Today:
"“I would love to just go out there and play against [Cousins],” Griner said, per Sam Amick of USA Today. “We talk a lot of crap to each other. I love talking to him. He’s really funny. I would love to just go out there and play against him.”"
"“I’ve never really been around him before until now, but he’s like that big brother, just to talk smack to and who is always competitive. He’s awesome.”"
After practice on Tuesday, Cousins sent some trash talk Griner’s way.
"Whenever you’re ready to get it on camera and see her get embarrassed, I’m ready for it"
Cousins also spoke about Griner’s hypothetical chances in a 1-on-1 game against him.
"“She’s got some footwork, but I’m top dog,” Cousins said. I told her she’s the third-best post player here behind me and DJ (DeAndre Jordan). She’s a little mad about that.”"
Let’s check out the tale of the tape, via WNBA.com and NBA.com, respectively.
Griner
Age: 25 (10/18/90)
Height: 6’9″
Weight: 206 pounds
Cousins
Age: 25 (8/13/90)
Height: 6’11”
Weight: 270 lbs.
Of course, the quest for gold in Rio remains the top, blinders-on priority for both Griner and Cousins right now. Still, let’s hope this theoretically friendly 1-on-1 contest comes together at some point, followed by the documented evidence Cousins has called for. If anything, it’s the kind of publicity event that — if orchestrated thoughtfully and carefully — could be a touchstone moment for both leagues.