NBA Investigates Clippers, Kawhi Leonard Over $28M No-Show Deal

Kawhi Leonard is at the center of controversy over a $28 million no-show endorsement deal with Aspiration, a now-bankrupt company partially backed by Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer. Reports reveal Leonard also received an additional $20 million in company stock, bringing his total compensation close to $48 million, nearly matching Ballmer's $50 million investment in Aspiration. Journalist Pablo Torre alleges the deal was a scheme to circumvent NBA salary cap rules, sparking comparisons to mafia-style no-show jobs and prompting widespread public and media scrutiny. The Clippers have denied any misconduct or salary cap circumvention, but if proven, the team could face severe penalties similar to past NBA sanctions for cap violations. Additional reporting indicates Leonard's 2019 free agency involved endorsement arrangements that met his financial demands, with some of these deals reportedly brought to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver’s attention without subsequent investigation. The unfolding situation raises serious questions about salary cap integrity and the lengths teams may go to secure star players.