DeMarcus Cousins Returns to Taiwan for Remainder of T1 League Season

DeMarcus Cousins, a four-time NBA All-Star , has returned to Taiwan to finish his renewed contract with the Taiwan Beer Leopards in the T1 League. The Taoyuan-based team announced on March 18 that Cousins had officially renewed his contract, leading to his return on April 17, 2024.

Cousins initially played a four-game contract with the Leopards in January 2023. He will now play in all three of the remaining regular season games and the postseason games with the team. Fans will have the opportunity to see Cousins play across the island, including an away game against the Kaohsiung Aquas on April 28.

The Taoyuan team has consecutively won all four of their last games and is currently second in the league standings, having won 16 out of 25 games this season. They are behind the New Taipei CTBC DEA in the standings.

Cousins expressed his joy to be back with his teammates and to have the camaraderie of playing the style of basketball they all enjoy. "I'm looking forward to getting back on the court with my teammates and competing at a high level," Cousins said. "We have a great group of guys here and I think we can make a strong push in the playoffs."

The former NBA star is also accompanied by his family on this second stay in Taiwan. They plan to explore the island as much as they can during his time with the team. "I'm excited to show my family the beauty and culture of Taiwan," Cousins added. "It's a great opportunity for us to experience a new country together while I continue playing the game I love."

Why this matters:Cousins' return to the T1 League brings added star power and enthusiasm to the Taiwanese basketball scene. His presence is expected to boost attendance and generate more international interest in the league as it continues to grow and attract top talent from around the world.

The Taiwan Beer Leopards are hoping Cousins' experience and leadership will help propel them to a championship this season. Head coach Cheng Chih-lung expressed confidence in the team's ability to compete with Cousins back in the lineup. "Having a player of DeMarcus' caliber on our team gives us a great chance to win it all," Cheng said. "We're excited to see what he can do for us in the playoffs."

Key Takeaways

• 4-time NBA All-Star DeMarcus Cousins returns to Taiwan's T1 League team.
• Cousins signed a renewed contract with Taiwan Beer Leopards, playing final regular season and playoff games.
• Leopards currently 2nd in league standings, hoping Cousins' experience boosts their championship chances.
• Cousins excited to reunite with teammates and showcase Taiwan's culture to his family.
• Cousins' return expected to increase fan interest and attendance in the growing T1 League.