Kings’ Cousins named NBA’s Western Conference Player of the Week

Kings center DeMarcus Cousins was named the NBA’s Western Conference Player of the Week on Monday, the third time he has earned the honor.

Cousins averaged 32.5 points (tied for first in the conference) and 11.0 rebounds (third) while helping the Kings go 3-1. He had a double double in three of those games.

Cousins is averaging 28.0 points and 11.0 rebounds in seven games, though he missed four games because of a strained right Achilles’ tendon. He has added the three-point shot to his offensive repertoire, making 13 of 29 attempts (44.8 percent).

The award capped quite a week for the Kings and their star player. The Kings made national headlines early in the week after Cousins apologized for a profanity-laced tirade directed toward coach George Karl following a loss to the San Antonio Spurs. That led to a team meeting and an airing of grievances; since then, the Kings have won three consecutive games.

Off the court, Cousins offered to cover the costs of funeral services for Grant High School senior football player Jaulon Clavo, who was shot and killed hours before Grant was scheduled to host a Sac-Joaquin Section Division II playoff game Friday. That game against Beyer of Modesto was postponed until Monday.

Charlotte Hornets guard Nicolas Batum was named the Eastern Conference Player of the Week. He averaged 25.5 points, 6.0 rebounds and 3.0 assists to lead the Hornets to a 3-1 week.

This story was originally published November 16, 2015 at 12:57 PM with the headline "Kings’ Cousins named NBA’s Western Conference Player of the Week."