DeMarcus Cousins apologized to fans after he brawled with multiple spectators during Monday’s game in the Puerto Rican professional basketball league.
The four-time NBA All-Star, who played for the Mets de Guaynabo in the Baloncesto Superior Nacional league, shared a message on his Instagram Story after he was suspended for the rest of the season and his team terminated his contract Tuesday.
“I want to apologize to the fans of Puerto Rico for my actions,” Cousins wrote including a blue heart emoji. “I have so much love and respect for the island.”
During a road game Monday, Cousins made an obscene gesture at a fan who was sitting courtside, grabbing his crotch and exchanging words.
Cousins, who played 11 NBA seasons for several teams, grabbed the fan’s arm as the man appeared to give him the double bird.
As things escalated, one of Cousins’ teammates stepped in between the two.
The 34-year-old big man received his second technical and was ejected from the game.
Cousins continued to brawl with other fans, making contact with at least one while on his way to the locker room.
Some threw drinks at Cousins as he had to be held back.
Cousins received a $4,250 fine, the Baloncesto Superior Nacional league announced Tuesday, adding that he could face an additional one of $5,750.
The Mets were defeated by the Vaqueros de Bayamon, 101-92, at Coliseo Rubén Rodríguez.
Cousins had 11 points and seven rebounds before he was ejected.
“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 Mets said in a release.
In his second season with the Mets, Cousins averaged 18.2 points per game with nine rebounds.
He helped them reach the league semifinals in 2023.