NBA Suspends Clippers Owner Steve Ballmer for One Year Over Salary Cap Violations
The NBA has suspended Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer for one year as part of a series of sanctions against the team. The penalties stem from violations related to salary cap circumvention rules involving star player Kawhi Leonard. According to the league, Leonard pressured the Clippers to assist him in securing off-court income opportunities and failed to reimburse personal expenses covered by the team. Ballmer is said to have knowingly supported these efforts, including approving a business deal that was essential for an endorsement agreement with Aspiration. The NBA also imposed a $30 million fine on the Clippers and mandated the forfeiture of five first-round draft picks from 2029 through 2033.
Topics: NBA salary cap violations team sanctions