DeMarcus Cousins not concerned by Charles Barkley criticism

DeMarcus Cousins has said that he does not care about former league MVP Charles Barkley's recent criticism of him.

The retired power forward, who now works as a TV analyst, was angered by reports that the Sacramento Kings had asked their All-Star center's opinion before hiring new coach George Karl.

However, the 24-year-old told ESPN: "It ain't personal. I mean, I don't really respect the guy, but at the same time, I don't really care what he thinks either. I don't respect him and I don't care what he thinks.

"I mean, that's Charles being Charles. A lot of people don't really know the real story about it. I never really had anything to do with it in the first place.

"I wouldn't necessarily say he's anybody of an authority. I would just say he is very comfortable on the television."

Cousins will make his first appearance in the All-Star game tonight.