Former Aspiration employees allege Kawhi Leonard received a $28 million "no-show" deal from the now-bankrupt environmental company to circumvent NBA salary cap rules. The deal, allegedly facilitated by Clippers owner Steve Ballmer, is under scrutiny. The Clippers deny any wrongdoing, stating they ended their relationship with Aspiration after it defaulted on obligations. This isn't the first time Leonard's business dealings have faced accusations of impropriety; a prior NBA investigation found no evidence of wrongdoing but could be reopened if new evidence emerges. Violation of salary cap rules can result in severe penalties for teams and players, including fines, loss of draft picks, and contract voiding.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.