April 10, 2013; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins (15) goes up to the basket against New Orleans Hornets point guard Brian Roberts (22) during the second quarter at Sleep Train Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Sacramento Kings big man DeMarcus Cousins has spent the vast majority of his offseason with children on his “School is Cool” tour, but the former Kentucky Wildcat took a momentary break while in his former stomping grounds to throw out the first pitch at a Lexington Legends game.

While there, Cousins spoke to Lex18.com’s Alan Cutler and expressed optimism for the Kings franchise, stating that good things were to come. He also talked about his maturity and desire to be a leader, something he’s been trying to improve upon.

Per Cutler’s piece:

“A rough season,” says the former UK star after throwing out the first pitch Thursday night before the Lexington Legends played. “Another rough season. Another learning season. I’m still a believer. I believe the good times will come.”

….

“I’m trying to improve on everything. Being a leader. Every year I’m trying to get my field goal percentage up. My all around game. It’s not one specific area I’m trying to work on. I’m trying to work on everything.”

For many, Cousins’ actions speak louder than his words, but it’s good to see the versatile big with his head on straight, talking a good game.

Hopefully for both Cousins and King fans, talk isn’t all that it is.

The former Kentucky Wildcat and Mobile native has been in both communities the past few weeks, making stops at local schools like Eubank and Burnside Elementary during his “School is Cool” tour.

In addition to talking to the children, both in group and one-on-one settings, Cousins has also been spotted playing pickup games with the kids, though few moments may get more attention than that of Cousins being given a bit of top secret info from one of his fans.

While giving out autographs, high-fives and hugs, a young lady approached Cousins and as can be seen in the video below, let her feelings be known about the Kings big man – though – she just wanted to keep it between the two of them:

For all of the flack Cousins receives, both from King and NBA fans alike, the softer side of Cousins isn’t seen often on a mass setting. While the media tends to focus on the outbursts and suspensions, the stories about Cousins dressing up as Santa at local electronic store or Cousins donating money to victims of tragedies both big and small are often left unmentioned.

Like Cousins or not, it’s a heartfelt moment as can be seen by Cousins wide eyed smile.