DeMarcus Cousins was once one of the most promising big men in the NBA. The former Sacramento Kings star was a four-time All-Star and a two-time All-NBA Team member. Unfortunately, his attitude on and off the court prevented him from reaching his full potential.
Despite his career averages of 19.6 points, 10.2 rebounds, 1.3 steals and 1.1 blocks per game, Cousins only lasted 11 seasons in the NBA and was out of the league after the 2021-22 campaign.
Cousins has since been playing internationally, even having a stint in Taiwan. More recently, he joined the Mets de Guaynabo team of Puerto Rico's top professional basketball league.
However, just three months since joining the club this 2025, Cousins has not only been suspended for the rest of the season, but he was also fined and saw his contract terminated. This came after he was involved in a brawl with fans — during which he made an obscene gesture and confronted hecklers courtside, even appearing ready to punch one person.
Cousins has since apologized for his actions, writing on his Instagram Stories: "I want to apologize to the fans of Puerto Rico for my actions. I have so much love and respect for the island."
However, while some fans appreciated his gesture, others threw criticism at him and highlighted how he has never learned his lesson. After all, his temperament has always been a major issue throughout his basketball career.
"Fans need to respect players as well. Stop provoking players to react," a fan defended Cousins. Another one shared, "He’s only human. Don’t be one of those people who like to beat people while they’re down."
An understanding supporter shared, "It happens, Boogie. The first step is apologizing and we still love you down here. Those fans that threw all that do not represent the rest of the Bayamon fans like myself! Blessings and best luck, brother @boogiecousins."
A critic, however, pointed out: "He needs anger management classes respectfully like come on."
"Damage has been done lol players like boogie doesn't need to be respected. he himself doesn't respect the game. Just another wasted talent," a social media user stated.
"Nah what you did was nasty man, get the fan was a jerk but doing… that is nasty bro," a follower added, seemingly not accepting his apology.
DeMarcus Cousins
Former Sacramento Kings head coach Michael Malone (left) instructs center DeMarcus Cousins (15) during a game.
© Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
It remains to be seen what's next in Cousins' basketball career. For now, though, fans won't be seeing the big man in Puerto Rico any time soon.