TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Taiwan Beer Leopards announced on Monday (Dec. 18) the signing of former NBA star DeMarcus Cousins, and did not rule out the addition of other NBA talents in the future.
In a significant boost to the profile of Taiwanese basketball, the club's CEO Johnny Chang confirmed discussions had "taken place with stars of a similar caliber, and maintained an open attitude toward further potential roster enhancements."
Cousins, who is lauded as one of the most versatile centers in NBA history and a gold medalist with Team USA, has initially signed a one-month contract with the Taiwan Beer Leopards.
The star center is slated to arrive in Taiwan by mid-January and will debut in home games at the Taoyuan Arena on Jan. 20, 21, 27, and 28.
While Chang kept Cousins’ salary confidential, he hinted at using the structure of NBA short-term contracts as a rough guide for estimating the figures.
Responding to rumors about Cousins' fiery temperament, Chang clarified that "his intensity on the court is a sign of respect for professional basketball and will bring a passionate atmosphere to the games."
"I am surprised at the professionalism Cousins demonstrated throughout the negotiation process," Chang expressed during an interview after the news broke out.