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Kawhi Ignors Podcaster Probing Clippers Mess
1 Oct
Summary
- Kawhi Leonard expressed no interest in a podcaster's show.
- The podcaster previously exposed Clippers' endorsement deals.
- These deals cost the Clippers five first-round picks.
NBA star Kawhi Leonard has publicly stated he has no interest in the "Pablo Torre Finds Out" podcast. The show previously uncovered the Clippers' controversial endorsement deals, which led to significant penalties for the franchise.
Torre's reporting highlighted that the Clippers allegedly paid Leonard millions via endorsement agreements without requiring commensurate work. The NBA later determined these arrangements were a tactic to circumvent the salary cap. A recent episode revisited these allegations, specifically examining a sponsorship with Boingo Wireless.
As a consequence of these findings, the Clippers forfeited five first-round picks. Owner Steve Ballmer received a one-year suspension and a $30 million fine. Other executives also faced suspensions, and the team's president of basketball operations was suspended without pay.
Leonard himself was not suspended and his contracts remain valid. He was ordered to pay $700,000 in restitution for improper benefits received by him and his representative. His uncle and representative, Dennis Robertson, is now barred from all NBA business dealings.
Leonard has maintained that he signed his Clippers contract and related agreements in good faith, unaware of any cap-avoidance intent. He has apologized for any distraction caused and stated his focus is on moving forward with a clean slate.
