The LA Clippers have been slammed with a record fine after NBA authorities concluded they circumvented salary cap rules pertaining to talisman Kawhi Leonard.
According to league sources, $30m dollars has been imposed with five of their first round NBA draft picks, scheduled for the years 2029-33, to be surrendered. Owner Steve Ballmer’s suspension of 12 months means he will be prevented from all league and team activities.
Evidence found by the NBA confirmed “Repeated” misconduct, most of which centered on an “attempt to secure under-market, off-court opportunities.” An investigative probe was initially launched on the back of a published report, suggesting an off-market $28 million endorsement from the Clippers for endorsement and consultancy purposes by Aspiration Fund adviser LLC.
Leonard, fined $700,000, acknowledged responsibility but stated: ” I signed this agreement in good faith and was unaware of any intended breach of NBA salary cap rules.”
” I accept the final responsibility for my actions and the distraction, what’s happened has caused my team-mates and my family and the fans,” said Leonard.”
Commissioner Adam Silver declared the Clippers’ actions were ‘flagrant’, also stateing they were “in pursuit of these violations with aggressive and deceitful intent. The penalties should be commensurate and serve as a deterrent.”
The franchise rejected the findings, accusing the investigations as flawed and a “gross injustice”. They also revealed their intentions to appeal. They will be subject to five years of monitoring and compliance from the league.
