When DeMarcus Cousins and Kenneth Faried banged knees in Chicago, all of USA Basketball held its breath. As did a couple GMs. The program didn’t need another serious injury to a rising young NBA star.
Fortunately it turned out not to be much. Cousins sat out the USA’s exhibition win over Brazil Saturday and a couple days of practice, but he was back at it full speed on Tuesday practicing with the team in New York, reports John Schuhmann of NBA.com. This was a short practice but included a scrimmage.
Cousins is expected to play Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden when Team USA takes on the Dominican Republic (without Al Horford) in a FIBA World Cup tune up, however Cousins downplayed his chances, reports Chris Sheridan.
DeMarcus Cousins says he is 50-50 to play for Team USA tomorrow vs. Dominican Republic. Coach K said probability is higher.
— Chris Sheridan (@sheridanhoops) August 19, 2014
If you want more proof Cousins was out practicing…
Big man @boogiecousins works on free throws as a short practice for the #USABMNT comes to a close. pic.twitter.com/hb9ywEx4K4
— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) August 19, 2014
One other note: Derrick Rose did not go through a full practice on Tuesday and he may not start on Wednesday night. When he missed Tuesday’s practice it was deemed precautionary, and that may still be going on here, but this is something to watch.