A few weeks ago, American journalist Pablo Torre uncovered an alleged salary cap evasion scheme involving the Los Angeles Clippers and Kawhi Leonard. According to the allegations, the player allegedly received $28 million through Aspiration, a company linked to the team’s owner, Steve Ballmer, through a fictitious job with no real work obligations.
The company, which has been bankrupt since March 2025 and is currently under federal investigation for fraud, is said to have served as a payment channel to circumvent the league’s strict financial rules. Although the Clippers have denied any wrongdoing, the NBA has launched a formal investigation
If the accusations are confirmed, the penalties could be very severe for both Leonard and the Los Angeles franchise. Leonard is guaranteed $100 million in a contract that runs through 2027
The possible sanctions
According toThe Athletic, the NBA is considering several disciplinary measures:
- Void Leonard’s contract and ban him from re-signing with the Clippers.
- Demand that he return the money he received from Aspiration.
- A fine of up to $350,000 for the player.
- Fine the Clippers up to $7.5 million.
- Losing the draft elections.
- Suspend Ballmer or another member of the team’s staff for up to a year and fine them up to $1 million each.
Read the full article here
