Overview

• Multiple reports citing team and league sources say the Clippers are done building around Kawhi Leonard and expect him to play out his deal through 2026–27.
• Owner Steve Ballmer publicly denied wrongdoing, said he was personally defrauded, and added “This too shall pass,” while saying he welcomes the investigation.
• The NBA retained Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz to lead the inquiry, and potential penalties include fines, loss of first-round picks and possible voiding of Leonard’s contract if circumvention is proven.
• Investigative reporting links a $50 million Ballmer investment in Aspiration and a $1.99 million December 2022 wire from minority owner Dennis Wong to a $1.75 million payment to Leonard nine days later, with former employees describing the endorsement as a “no-show” arrangement.
• Coverage describes mounting internal frustration over Leonard’s availability and secrecy, with former staffers saying this probe is different because it raises questions about Ballmer’s character.