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.

Written by
Sian Cowper