Kawhi Leonard Denies Clippers’ Circumvention Allegations
Kawhi Leonard recently addressed allegations concerning a $28 million endorsement deal with Aspiration Fund Adviser LLC, a company now under investigation by the NBA. Speaking at the Los Angeles Clippers’ media day, Leonard stated that he did not receive all the payments owed to him, but firmly denied any wrongdoing. This marks his first public comments following a report by journalist Pablo Torre suggesting possible violations of the NBA’s salary cap rules.
Kawhi Leonard’s Response to Investigation
Leonard emphasized that he and his team adhered to the rules. He expressed confidence in the NBA’s investigation, stating that it would not distract him or his teammates. “The NBA is going to do their job. None of us did any wrongdoing, and that’s it,” he asserted.
Clippers’ Stance on Allegations
The Clippers organization has categorically rejected the allegations and welcomed the investigation. Team president Lawrence Frank expressed disappointment over the assumptions made, insisting that the findings will prove the allegations wrong. “We’re eager for the truth to come out,” he stated.
Notably, Steve Ballmer, the team’s owner, made a significant $50 million investment in Aspiration. The partnership between the company and the Clippers, worth $300 million, was announced in September 2021, shortly after Leonard signed a four-year, $176 million contract extension. Frank described Ballmer as one of the most honorable individuals he knows, underlining the team’s commitment to ethical practices.
Aspiration’s Bankruptcy and Fraud Allegations
The relationship between the Clippers and Aspiration ended after two years due to the contract going into default. Aspiration’s co-founder, Joseph Sanberg, faces federal charges for wire fraud and has agreed to plead guilty. Prosecutors allege he misled investors about the company’s financial situation, inflating revenue figures.
“This was a case of widespread fraud, and there were many victims,” noted Frank, highlighting the broader implications of the situation. Aspiration owed Leonard approximately $7 million at the time of its bankruptcy filing.
Defending the Endorsement Deal
When asked about his payments, Leonard admitted, “I did not receive the money owed, but the company went belly up. It was fraud, as everyone knows.” He refuted suggestions that he did not fulfill his obligations regarding the endorsement deal, stating, “I don’t think it’s accurate.” Leonard expressed that the ensuing drama is old news for him, as he has been aware of the company’s struggles for some time.
As the Clippers approach the start of training camp at Intuit Dome, Leonard is determined to keep his focus on the upcoming NBA season. “I don’t read headlines or new conspiracy theories or anything like that,” he remarked.
Scrutiny of Leonard’s Representation
The league has previously investigated Leonard’s representatives for potentially requesting benefits that could breach salary cap regulations during his free agency. Leonard’s uncle, Dennis Robertson, is particularly under scrutiny in this regard. When questioned about whether Robertson sought additional benefits, Frank reaffirmed that all parties involved understand the rules.
The NBA can impose significant penalties if any salary cap violations are confirmed. Sanctions could range from fines up to $7.5 million to the voiding of contracts and loss of future draft picks. Frank reiterated that the allegations do not align with their experience and expressed confidence that the full truth will emerge.
