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[Saba Sports News] The Baloncesto Superior Nacional (BSN) league in Puerto Rico has handed down a harsh penalty to DeMarcus Cousins following a heated altercation with fans.
On Tuesday, the league announced that the former NBA All-Star has been suspended for the remainder of the season after an incident during a recent game between Cousins’ Guaynabo Mets and the Bayamon Cowboys. In addition to the suspension, Cousins was fined $4,750 for a disqualifying foul, a technical foul, and actions deemed to incite violence or provoke spectators. The league also issued a show-cause order that could lead to an additional $5,750 fine, bringing the total potential penalty to $10,000.
The incident occurred on Monday when Cousins responded to a heckling courtside fan by grabbing his crotch and flashing middle fingers—escalating to physical contact with the fan. After being ejected, Cousins continued exchanging gestures with fans near the tunnel and was hit with drinks as he attempted to retaliate, though he was restrained before the situation worsened.
The BSN also announced consequences for fans involved in the confrontation. Bayamon supporters who made inappropriate gestures and threw objects at Cousins will be identified and banned for the rest of the season. The league further warned Bayamon that any future incidents involving fans attacking opponents could result in their home arena being shut down and games relocated.
With Guaynabo sitting at 9-18 and just seven games left in the regular season, Cousins will miss the remainder of the campaign. While the BSN didn’t confirm if the suspension would extend into the playoffs, Guaynabo’s postseason chances are slim.
Cousins, now 34, is in his second season playing in Puerto Rico after last appearing in the NBA in 2022. Known for his volatile on-court temperament throughout his NBA career, the incident suggests that not much has changed in his overseas stint.