Boogie to NOLA

DeMarcus Cousins made his first debut playing for the Pelicans Thursday night, a highly anticipated night of many. Since the big trade, this made for the first chance Kentucky fans were able to watch Anthony Davis and Boogie; 2 UK legends, play along side of each other now as teammates.

Cousins opened up the game scoring the Pelicans first points against the Rockets and put up 24 points and 14 rebounds for the night.

Great start to his Pelican career! Let's BOOGIE! pic.twitter.com/HV4gldY0bp

— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) February 24, 2017

Amongst the transition and change that comes with the move, fans will notice quite a few differences. One being, Cousins jersey number now is #0. Say goodbye to the classic #15.

DeMarcus left Sacramento with an emotional goodbye, expressing his love for the city and people. He also mentioned that his new number has a meaning of "new life." The seven years DeMarcus spent in Sac were not only filled with basketball, but countless hours of him devoting his time to give back to the community. 

Cousins did everything from providing free prescription eyewear to kids, delivering food to families on Thanksgiving, making sure animals weren't neglected, to covering the funeral costs of a local HS football player who tragically passed away. The list of could go on and on.

My friend got transferred to another city because of his job. He had some things to say. Rough to watch. pic.twitter.com/iBRyMf1UP7

— Carmichael Dave (@CarmichaelDave) February 21, 2017

The city loved him and he loved them back.  

In 2013 after signing a contract extension he donated $1 million to local charities in the area. 

From Bryan Rose at a Royal Pain:

As the press conference concluded, a relatively unsure Cousins looked around, hands wrapped around the microphone, clearly wanting to say something. Owner Vivek Ranadive was getting out of his seat, as was general manager Pete D’Alessandro. They could see Cousins wanting to speak, so they urged him on where he quietly announced that he was donating $1 million dollars to Sacramento families in need of financial assistance. There was no fan fare – no ‘praise me’ from Cousins. Had you turned away for a moment you wouldn’t have known it took place. It was literally nothing more than simple side note as he walked away over to awaiting media members.

Cousins wasn’t overly clear in how the funds would be distributed – he likely didn’t know as he simply stated that he would be donating to families in need along with Mayor Kevin Johnson‘s organization.

DeMarcus Cousins isn't a "good guy," in fact- he's better. 

He is a GREAT guy, who does great things. On AND off the court. If for some reason you happen not be a Cousins fan?... Well, you should be. You're missing out. 

I'm a new fan of the Pelicans, and an even bigger fan of that special #0! 

#teamCousins #LoyaltyisLove