Free agent guard Malik Beasley has signed with Puerto Rico’s Santurce Crabbers, a team owned by Grammy-winning artist Bad Bunny, as confirmed by reports from Shams Charania on Friday. This agreement comes amid ongoing NBA and FBI investigations into gambling allegations involving Beasley, offering him a chance to stay competitive while awaiting a resolution.
Opportunity to Maintain Competitive Edge Ahead of Free Agency
The Santurce Crabbers’ season starts in March, providing Beasley a platform to demonstrate his skills before his anticipated 2026 free agency. Shams Charania explained,
“This gives Beasley the opportunity to play for Bad Bunny’s team in Puerto Rico and showcase ahead of 2026 free agency as he awaits a ruling on his NBA investigation. Beasley averaged 16.3 points in all 82 games for the Pistons last season, setting a franchise-record 319 3s.”
?Shams Charania, Journalist
Recent Performance Highlights Beasley’s Value
At 29 years old, Beasley recently completed one of his best seasons with the Detroit Pistons, averaging 16.3 points over 82 games. He set a new franchise record by making 319 three-pointers, demonstrating his efficiency from beyond the arc. Throughout his NBA career, Beasley has maintained a 39.1% three-point shooting percentage in 578 appearances, underlining his reputation as a reliable perimeter shooter. His role as a floor spacer fits well into modern offenses that emphasize drive-and-kick strategies.
Choosing Puerto Rico Over Europe Amid Contract Speculation
After months of speculation about an overseas move, including interest from European club Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade, Beasley’s decision to join the Puerto Rican league allows flexibility. His agent Brian Jungreis dismissed reports of a finalized deal with the Serbian club. The Puerto Rico contract permits Beasley to gain game experience without committing long term abroad, preserving his prospects for a return to the NBA.
Maintaining Activity During NBA’s Review Process
This arrangement ensures Beasley remains active in a competitive basketball environment while league officials complete their investigation. The decision to play in Puerto Rico reflects a strategic choice to stay prepared and visible, given the uncertainty surrounding his NBA future.
This gives Beasley the opportunity to play for Bad Bunny's team in Puerto Rico and showcase ahead of 2026 free agency as he awaits a ruling on his NBA investigation. Beasley averaged 16.3 points in all 82 games for the Pistons last season, setting a franchise-record 319 3s. https://t.co/7rKmS5VMdq
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 13, 2026
