The Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard is currently facing league scrutiny. The NBA is looking into a reported $28 million undisclosed endorsement agreement between him and Aspiration. The outcome of the investigation is expected to be revealed following the All-Star break.
Despite the ongoing probe, Leonard was selected as a reserve for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game. During All-Star Weekend on Saturday, he was questioned about whether the investigation may have influenced his initial omission from the All-Star roster. However, Leonard responded calmly, stating that he does not believe the investigation affected the voting process.
“I’m not sure,” Leonard said. “I don’t think so. I don’t think Adam Silver would let something like that play into how a player is playing on the court. Especially me. I’m not doing anything to anyone.”
During his Saturday’s press conference, Commissioner Silver confirmed that the inquiry surrounding Leonard and the Clippers remains active.
“I haven’t come to any decisions whatsoever yet on the Clippers matter,” Silver said. “As you know, the league office is not directly running the investigation. It’s being overseen by a law firm, Wachtel, in New York. From everything I’ve been told, the Clippers have been fully cooperative. But as I said, I’m not involved day-to-day in the investigation.”
Leonard has consistently denied any improper conduct related to the alleged endorsement arrangement. For now, his attention has shifted back to basketball as he prepares for his seventh All-Star appearance. He is set to represent the USA Stripes team alongside stars such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Jaylen Brown, and Jalen Brunson.
Kawhi Leonard Becomes Honest About Clippers’ Current Ceiling
Kawhi Leonard has been pivotal in the Clippers’ mid-season turnaround. However, despite this, Leonard is not happy with the Clippers’ current situation.
“Obviously right now with the roster we’re not contenders,” Leonard said. “We got a lot of young guys that’s learning. We want Darius to be healthy for the second half. If he’s there available for the second half, he is. Really need him to be ready to go next year. So, that’s my mindset.”
Statistically, Leonard is enjoying a strong campaign, averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. His leadership and production have helped the Clippers secure victories in three of their last four games heading into the All-Star break.
