DeMarcus Cousins’ Suspension and Danilo Gallinari’s Role
In June, during the NBA Finals, the sports world was abuzz when former All-Star DeMarcus Cousins was suspended for the remainder of the Baloncesto Superior Nacional (BSN) season after an incident with fans in Puerto Rico. Yet, standing by during this stir was Danilo Gallinari, a seasoned 16-year veteran and No. 6 overall pick in the NBA draft. As he reminisced last week at his South Florida home, Gallinari disclosed his less-publicized role in the event, confessing to having provoked Cousins during the fateful game on June 9.
“I hit him in the eye twice while we were fighting for a rebound, which led to him losing his cool and interacting with our fans, culminating in the chaos that followed,”
he recounted.
Gallinari’s Retirement and Love for the Game
While Cousins’ unsettling exit garnered attention, Gallinari’s presence in Puerto Rico was a significant chapter in his career that would ultimately see him conclude his professional journey. At 37, Gallinari recently stated his retirement from basketball following his participation with Italy during the EuroBasket tournament. This raises an interesting inquiry into why a player of his caliber, having amassed over $200 million in the NBA and being revered in Italy, would choose to compete in Puerto Rico. His answer was heartfelt:
“It was purely out of love for the game.”
Transitioning to Puerto Rico
Gallinari’s basketball odyssey started with informal games after wrapping up his time with the Milwaukee Bucks. Following a brief playoff exit against the Indiana Pacers, he envisioned extending his basketball career for another season.
“I wanted to embrace a veteran role, mentoring young players, yet I needed a team that would reach out to me,”
he explained, now settled in South Florida with his wife, journalist Eleonora Boi, and their children. While waiting for an NBA opportunity, he kept in shape through pickup games at the University of Miami alongside former NBA player Carlos Arroyo.
Arroyo, who serves as a part-owner of the Vaqueros de Bayamon, the most accomplished basketball club in Puerto Rico, discussed with Gallinari the possibility of continuing his career in the BSN. As Gallinari expressed his desire to play at a competitive level leading up to EuroBasket, the decision to join Bayamon became apparent. The league, although lesser-known in the U.S., is steeped in storied basketball history, having seen the likes of legendary coach Phil Jackson. Gallinari stated,
“Initially, I aimed for the NBA, but as February approached without a team, Puerto Rico began to look appealing.”
Success in the BSN and Personal Challenges
In this vibrant basketball atmosphere, Gallinari thrived, discovering the level of competition was unexpectedly high. He enjoyed substantial playtime and crucial leadership on the court, leading Bayamon to the BSN championship and earning Finals MVP honors. His commitment to his new team and the local fans was evident as he made a concerted effort to arrive early for training camp, determined to contribute significantly to their championship aspirations.
Additionally, this chapter was not devoid of a dramatic incident. On a rare day off, while at a beach with his wife and kids, tragedy struck when Boi was attacked by a shark. Fortunately, both she and their unborn baby were unharmed, underpinning their resilience amidst such trials. Gallinari, reflecting on his life choices, decided to retire, emphasizing the importance of spending quality time with his growing family. He noted,
“While I might still have a season left in me, I want to be actively engaged in my children’s lives and create lasting memories, just as my father did with me.”
Conclusion: A Fulfilled Career
As Gallinari officially bids farewell to professional basketball, he carries with him memories of a fulfilled career, despite injuries that hindered him from reaching the peaks he aspired to within the NBA. He acknowledged the influence of his past experiences and how they shaped his journey, expressing peace about his career. With his time in Puerto Rico, Gallinari rediscovered the joy of basketball and the feelings of fulfillment he had long sought, pulling it all together in this heartfelt conclusion to his storied profession.
