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 article released on Monday, three sources disclosed that the NBA did not uncover any proof indicating that Ballmer had utilized team sponsors to compensate Kawhi Leonard covertly and surpass the salary cap.
The report suggested that the NBA is looking into whether the Clippers’ introduction of Leonard to team sponsors breaches the league’s regulations prohibiting salary cap manipulation. NBA representative Mike Bass refuted the claims in the ESPN article, stating that it contains numerous factual inaccuracies.
Bass announced that the outcomes of the NBA’s investigation will be disclosed upon its conclusion. Meanwhile, a prospective trade between L.A. and the Toronto Raptors concerning Leonard has been halted pending the league’s decision on potential penalties.