The NBA is challenging assertions made in a recent ESPN report regarding the league’s inquiry into Los Angeles Clippers proprietor Steve Ballmer. According to ESPN’s publication on Monday, three sources claimed that the NBA did not uncover any proof indicating that Ballmer used team sponsors to compensate Kawhi Leonard secretly and surpass the salary cap.
The report suggested that the NBA is examining whether the team’s presentation of Leonard to sponsors breaches the league’s regulations prohibiting salary cap violations. NBA spokesperson Mike Bass disavowed the ESPN report on Monday, stating that it contains numerous inaccuracies. Bass mentioned that the outcome of the NBA’s investigation will be disclosed upon its conclusion.
A transaction between the L.A. Clippers and the Toronto Raptors concerning Leonard is currently on hold pending the league’s decision on potential penalties.