The NBA is refuting allegations presented in an ESPN report regarding its probe into Steve Ballmer, the owner of the Los Angeles Clippers. According to the ESPN story released on Monday, three sources claimed that the NBA did not uncover any proof indicating that Ballmer used team sponsors to compensate Kawhi Leonard in a way that evades the salary cap.
The article suggested that the NBA is investigating whether the Clippers’ showcasing of Leonard to team sponsors violates the league’s regulations against circumventing the salary cap. NBA spokesperson Mike Bass dismissed the ESPN article on Monday, stating that it contains numerous inaccuracies.
Bass emphasized that the NBA will disclose the findings of its investigation upon its conclusion. The trade deal between the Clippers and the Toronto Raptors, which involves Leonard, has been halted pending the league’s decision on potential repercussions.