NBA Investigates Clippers, Ballmer, Leonard Contract Allegations

The NBA is investigating allegations that the Los Angeles Clippers and owner Steve Ballmer used an endorsement deal between Kawhi Leonard and Aspiration to circumvent the salary cap. Former Aspiration CEO Andrei Cherny has denied claims that Leonard had a "no-show" contract, stating the four-year endorsement deal included extensive obligations Leonard was required to fulfill and that Aspiration could terminate the contract if he did not meet them. Despite these provisions, there is no public evidence Leonard performed any promotional work, such as social media posts or appearances, while still receiving payments totaling $28 million plus stock options. Ballmer, who invested heavily in Aspiration, has denied any wrongdoing and said he was "duped" by the company, emphasizing the Clippers were not involved in Leonard's endorsement arrangements. Reports also reveal significant investments from Clippers executives into Aspiration around the time of Leonard’s payments, raising further scrutiny. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has confirmed the league's investigation, although he stated he had not previously heard any indications of salary cap circumvention by the Clippers.