NBA Denies Findings in Clippers Investigation Involving Kawhi Leonard

The NBA has clarified that it has not reached any conclusions regarding its investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers and allegations of salary-cap circumvention involving player Kawhi Leonard.

Following a report from ESPN, which claimed that the league found no evidence of Clippers owner Steve Ballmer providing financial support to Leonard through sponsors, the NBA issued a statement disputing the accuracy of the report. The league is still examining whether the introduction of Leonard to sponsors violated any rules.

The investigation, which began in September 2025, focuses on claims that Leonard had a $28 million 'no-show' deal with the now-defunct company Aspiration, along with agreements with Daktronics and Boingo Wireless. The Clippers have stated they did not provide Leonard with undisclosed compensation outside of his NBA contract. As the investigation continues, Leonard's trade to the Toronto Raptors remains pending, with both parties hopeful for a resolution before the Raptors' season opener on October 21.