by From staff and wire reports, USA TODAY

DeMarcus Cousins’ suspension will be appealed by the NBA players union, according to a Wednesday release from the NBAPA, which called the two-game punishment “excessive and unwarranted.”

Cousins was suspended for a confrontation with San Antonio Spurs TV commentator Sean Elliot after a game Friday in San Antonio. On Tuesday, the NBA denied a request for reconsideration that would have permitted Cousins to against Portland.

“We recognize the Commissioner’s desire to discourage confrontations between players and members of the media,” NBAPA’s Billy Hunter said in a statement. “But he needs to exercise more subtlety and discretion in ascertaining and examining the specific facts and circumstances before handing down such heavy-handed discipline.”

Cousin’s released a statement as well. Here are his words, in full:

“I appreciate the support of the NBA Player’s Association in appeal of my suspension by the NBA. I believe it best to allow the union and my agent, John Greig, to present my position about the situation. Despite believing the penalty unwarranted, I want to apologize to the Sacramento Kings, our fans and especially to my coaches and teammates for this distraction of our goals. As a leader of the team, I have to make the best decisions so my teammates can count on me. I am committed to continued growth and being the best player I can be.”

… [For more on DeMarcus Cousins' suspension will be appealed by NBAPA, click here.]