The NBA has reportedly found no evidence that Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer funneled payments to star forward Kawhi Leonard through team sponsors. This conclusion comes after a months-long investigation, though the league is still reviewing other potential rule violations. The Clippers can now focus on the court as this off-court saga nears its end.
What did the NBA investigation find?
The NBA's investigation did not uncover proof that Steve Ballmer directed payments to Kawhi Leonard via Clippers sponsors. The league presented its findings to the team in July. Both sides are now discussing a resolution to close the matter. However, the NBA is still examining whether the Clippers violated rules by introducing Leonard to team sponsors and if they failed to properly supervise employees.
It is unclear if these secondary issues broke any NBA rules. The potential for punishment still exists based on the league's final determination.
How did the Clippers and NBA respond?
The NBA released a statement disputing ESPN's initial report. The league claimed the article contained numerous significant inaccuracies and that they had declined to cooperate with ESPN's reporting. They stated the results would be clear once their own investigation concluded. ESPN responded by standing by their reporting, noting they had made multiple attempts to get comment from the NBA.
The Clippers also issued a detailed statement. They confirmed introducing players, including Kawhi Leonard, to business partners but stressed that all subsequent negotiations were handled by Leonard and his representatives. The team asserted they did not negotiate endorsement terms or determine his pay. They denied overpaying vendors or providing discounts to funnel money to the star forward.
What happens next for the Los Angeles Clippers?
The Clippers and the NBA are working toward a final resolution to the investigation. Based on the current wording, the team could still face some type of league punishment related to the sponsor introduction rules. Steve Ballmer and possibly the NBPA would likely take any potential penalty to arbitration, according to ESPN's sources.
For the team, moving past this investigation allows full attention to basketball operations. With a core built around Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, the Clippers aim to build on their recent performances. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our schedule page.
The central fact remains that they did not funnel money to Kawhi Leonard or provide him with undisclosed compensation outside his NBA contract. This clarity helps the organization plan for the future without this cloud of uncertainty.
