The NBA has refuted assertions made in a recent ESPN report regarding its probe into Los Angeles Clippers’ owner Steve Ballmer. On Monday, ESPN cited three sources claiming that the NBA concluded there was no proof of Ballmer using team sponsors to compensate Kawhi Leonard covertly and surpass the salary cap.
The article suggested that the NBA is examining whether the Clippers’ presentation of Leonard to sponsors breaches regulations barring salary cap manipulation, rather than focusing on monetary transactions. NBA spokesperson Mike Bass criticized the ESPN piece, stating it contains several significant errors.
Bass clarified that the NBA will disclose the findings of its investigation upon completion. A potential trade between the Clippers and the Toronto Raptors concerning Leonard is currently on hold pending the league’s decision on any potential penalties.