Announced! DeMarcus Cousins Officially Signs with SGA, Leaving the NBA as a Nugget

DeMarcus Cousins, a four-time NBA All-Star and one of the most dominant centers of his era, has officially joined Strong Group Athletics (SGA), a team based in the Philippines. Cousins will represent the squad in the 34th Dubai International Basketball Championship, adding another chapter to his globe-trotting post-NBA career.

A Storied NBA Career

Cousins, now 34, enjoyed a decade-long tenure in the NBA. He made his name as a force to be reckoned with during his time with the Sacramento Kings and the New Orleans Pelicans. Known for his exceptional skill set, combining size, strength, and finesse, Cousins became one of the league's premier big men.

Throughout his career, Cousins played for eight NBA teams: the Kings, Pelicans, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Denver Nuggets. His final NBA stint was during the 2021-22 season with the Nuggets, where he averaged 8.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game.

However, injuries significantly impacted his career trajectory. Once a dominant All-Star, Cousins saw his NBA opportunities dwindle, leading to his decision to explore basketball opportunities overseas.

A Global Journey Post-NBA

After leaving the NBA, Cousins didn’t step away from the game. Instead, he embarked on a global basketball journey, showcasing his skills and earning accolades in various leagues around the world.

Puerto Rico

Cousins’ first stop post-NBA was the Puerto Rican league, where he played during the 2022-23 season. In Puerto Rico, Cousins proved he still had plenty to offer, averaging 19 points, 9.8 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game. His three-point shooting also stood out, with a stellar 42.1% accuracy from beyond the arc.

Taiwan

For the 2023-24 season, Cousins took his talents to Taiwan’s T1 League, signing with the Taoyuan Leopards. The contract reportedly included a monthly salary of $200,000, with an additional $10,000 per game appearance fee. Cousins led the team to a championship, earning his first professional title. He dominated in the Finals, averaging 25.3 points, 16.5 rebounds, 2 assists, 1.8 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game, securing the Finals MVP award.

China

After his successful stint in Taiwan, Cousins joined the Chinese 3x3 Super League. Representing the Wuxi Wenlv team, he signed a lucrative deal worth $350,000 per month, with perks such as accommodations for his family and personal team.

Philippines

Now, Cousins has set his sights on the Philippines. Earlier this year, he had a brief 10-day stint with the Zamboanga Valientes, earning $200,000 for the short contract. His move to Strong Group Athletics marks a return to the country, where he will once again compete on an international stage.

A Pragmatic Approach

Unlike many athletes who cling to the dream of returning to the NBA, Cousins has taken a pragmatic approach. In February 2023, he openly admitted that his NBA days were likely over, expressing excitement for the next phase of his career. His focus has shifted to maximizing his earnings and enjoying basketball on his terms, a strategy that has led to consistent opportunities worldwide.

Cousins’ ability to adapt and thrive in different leagues is a testament to his skill and professionalism. While he may no longer be in the NBA, his contributions to the sport remain significant.

A Contrast with Dwight Howard

Cousins’ approach stands in stark contrast to that of his former NBA peer Dwight Howard. The 39-year-old Howard, who also exited the NBA in 2022, has struggled to find opportunities in professional basketball. Despite actively seeking a return, Howard remains without a team, a stark difference from Cousins’ globe-trotting success.

However, Howard recently received uplifting news: he is among the first-time candidates for the 2025 Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame class. This recognition serves as a reminder of his illustrious NBA career and offers some solace during his current struggles.

Cousins’ Legacy

While Cousins’ career path has diverged significantly from his early years in the NBA, his continued presence in international basketball demonstrates his enduring talent and love for the game. His journey underscores the evolving opportunities for veteran players in today’s global basketball landscape.

As he prepares to represent SGA in the Dubai International Basketball Championship, Cousins remains a player to watch—proof that there is life after the NBA, especially for those willing to adapt and embrace new challenges.