The LA Clippers and owner Steve Ballmer are accused of violating the NBA's salary cap by secretly paying Kawhi Leonard $28 million through a now-bankrupt company, Aspiration. A podcast revealed internal documents suggesting a deal disguised as an endorsement, with a clause voiding the payment if Leonard left the team. The Clippers deny any wrongdoing, stating their relationship with Aspiration ended before the alleged misconduct was discovered. The NBA is yet to comment, but past salary cap violations have resulted in significant penalties, including fines and forfeited draft picks. Leonard recently signed a new contract with the Clippers.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.