NBA Investigates Clippers, Kawhi Leonard Salary-Cap Circumvention Allegations

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has publicly addressed the investigation into allegations that the Los Angeles Clippers and owner Steve Ballmer circumvented the salary cap through a $28 million 'no-show' endorsement deal between Kawhi Leonard and Aspiration, a now-bankrupt financial services company. Silver emphasized the need for due process and fairness, stating that he had never heard of Aspiration before the allegations surfaced and that the league would let the investigation, overseen by law firm Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, run its course before taking any action. While Silver acknowledged his broad powers to impose penalties, including financial sanctions and draft pick suspensions, he expressed reluctance to act without substantial proof linking the Clippers and Ballmer directly to improper conduct. Ballmer has denied wrongdoing, asserting he had no control over Aspiration's deal with Leonard, and the Clippers have welcomed the investigation. The league is reserving judgment and prioritizing a thorough inquiry to determine if any impropriety occurred, with Silver underscoring the importance of treating the parties fairly amid public scrutiny. The investigation remains ongoing, and any potential punishments will depend on the findings.