Former National Basketball Association (NBA) star DeMarcus Cousins has found himself in hot water in Puerto Rico after getting involved in a brawl with fans while playing for the Guaynabo Mets in the Baloncesto Superior Nacional.
According to the league, Baloncesto Superior Nacional, strict action has been taken against Cousins: he has been suspended for the remainder of the season and fined $4,250 for a disqualifying foul, a technical foul, and actions deemed to incite violence or provoke confrontation. He must also show cause as to why he should not be fined an additional $5,750, which would bring his total financial penalty to $10,000.
The 34-year-old’s troubles didn’t end with suspension and fines. His club, the Guaynabo Mets, have since terminated his contract following the incident.
“As an organization, we strongly condemn any form of violence or provocation, whether on or off the field. Safety, respect, and sportsmanship are non-negotiable values for this franchise,” the Guaynabo Mets said in an official statement.
The incident took place during a recent game earlier this week, when a fan made obscene gestures at Cousins. In response, he grabbed his crotch and placed a hand on the fan’s face, escalating the situation. Cousins then grabbed the fan’s arm, prompting players and team staff to intervene and separate the two. Referees called a technical foul, which led to his ejection.
As Cousins was leaving the court, fans began verbally harassing him and throwing drinks and other liquids in his direction. Security intervened to prevent further escalation, and Cousins was eventually led to the locker room.
This was his second season playing in Puerto Rico for the Mets, where he was averaging 18.2 points and 9 rebounds per game. The team currently holds a 9–18 win-loss record. In his previous stint, Cousins had led the Mets to the semifinals.
Drafted fifth overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 2010 NBA Draft, Cousins has also played for the New Orleans Pelicans, Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Denver Nuggets, as well as having stints in Puerto Rico, Taiwan, and other international leagues.
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