The U.S. men’s basketball team got their first real challenge at the 2016 Olympics on Wednesday night, dealing with a feisty Australia team before finally besting them in the end. Despite this, the Americans are still the favorites to win the gold medal, of course. Meanwhile, the U.S. women’s team, an even more dominant squad than the men’s side, has had an incident-free tournament thus far. As such, perhaps the time has come for the two teams to look at one another to fuel their competitive spirits. At the very least, Brittney Griner and DeMarcus Cousins seem up for that.
Griner, maybe the most impressive physical force in women’s basketball, has made it a habit throughout her career to face off with men because she believes it helps her improve her game. Both Griner and Cousins are staying on a cruise ship with their teammates during these Olympics, and while they have taken a shine to each other, there is a competition brewing between them.
“I would love to just go out there and play against (Cousins),” Griner said. “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.”
Cousins responded, jokingly, “Whenever you’re ready to get it on camera and see her get embarrassed, I’m ready for it.” Beyond that, he had nothing but positive things to say about Griner.
“It’s almost like we’re the same person,” Cousins said. “As soon as I walk in the door, she’s at me. She says I’m a bum. She says she’ll kick my butt. It’s all in fun. She’s an incredible competitor. She’s an incredible player. It’s fun to be around the ladies and get to know them.”
Perhaps, once their gold medals are in tow, Boogie and Brittney can settle this on the court. All we ask is that they let us watch.
(Via USA Today)
