In the world of basketball, few players brought the same energy, attitude, and dominance to the court as DeMarcus “Boogie” Cousins. But according to the man himself, none of it would have happened without the University of Kentucky.
In a heartfelt quote that’s quickly gone viral among Big Blue Nation, Cousins opened up about his time in Lexington:
> “I mean, til this day, my best years ever when it comes to basketball — at any level. One of the most fun times, most genuine times. It was a group of guys that really, really cared and loved each other. I mean, the UK fanbase is insane, and that was 15 years ago. They still support us like we were there last week.”
Cousins’ passion for the program still runs deep. The legendary big man was a cornerstone of the Wildcats’ 2009-2010 squad — a team that electrified college basketball under then-head coach John Calipari. With teammates like John Wall, Eric Bledsoe, and Patrick Patterson, Cousins helped put Kentucky back on the national stage in a massive way.
But beyond the stats and the highlight reels, Boogie says it was the brotherhood and love from the fans that left a lasting impact.
> “There wouldn’t be no Boogie without Kentucky basketball.”
That statement says it all. For Cousins, Kentucky wasn’t just a stepping stone to the NBA — it was the foundation of his basketball identity. And it’s clear the fans feel the same. Even a decade and a half later, Big Blue Nation still cheers like Boogie never left.
BBN Reacts
Fans flooded social media with emotional responses, with many reminiscing about the iconic 2009-10 season and Cousins’ unforgettable moments on the hardwood. One comment read:
> “Boogie gave us EVERYTHING. The passion, the fight, the heart. He’ll always be one of the greats to wear that Kentucky jersey.”
Another fan simply wrote:
> “Once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat. Love you, Boogie.”
Cousins’ Legacy in Blue
Averaged 15.1 PPG, 9.8 RPG as a freshman
SEC Freshman of the Year
Helped lead Kentucky to 35-3 record and an Elite Eight appearance
Drafted 5th overall in the 2010 NBA Draft by the Sacramento Kings
As Kentucky gears up for another promising season, it’s powerful reminders like this that show why Lexington isn’t just a stop on the way to the league — it’s where legends are born.
