BOMBSHELL: NBA Insider reveals Adam Silver ignored cap circumventions in 2019 free agency

Amidst the scandal surrounding the $28 million endorsement deal between the Los Angeles Clippers and their star Kawhi Leonard, NBA insider John Gambadoro revealed details that Adam Silver was aware of potential salary cap circumventions but did not take action.

According to Gambadoro on Twitter, Silver was made aware of Toronto Raptors owner Larry Tanebaum offering an extra $15 million in endorsement money to Leonard in hopes of bringing back the former Finals MVP.

Silver, however, only reprimanded Tennebaum, citing that the businessman “truly didn’t understand the rules.” The commissioner reportedly only made a promise to take serious action if it happens in the future.

The Clippers eventually plucked Leonard from the then-world champions to a three-year, $103 million deal. The star has since signed two extensions: a four-year, $176.27 million contract in 2021, and a $149.51 million deal for another three years in 2024.

This story is fascinating. From what I know from sources – when Kawhi signed with the Clippers the Toronto owner Larry Tannebaum was beside himself because he believed he bent over backwards for Kawhi – including calling three sponsors to meet Kawhi’s demand of an extra $15… https://t.co/VVTxvA14Lj

— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) September 3, 2025

The NBA recently announced that it will investigate Leonard and the Clippers’ $28 million endorsement deal made with sustainability firm Aspiration.

“We are aware of this morning’s media report regarding the LA Clippers and are commencing an investigation,” NBA Spokesman Mike Bass said.

Meanwhile, the Clippers and Ballmer have responded to the allegations with a statement denying any involvement in circumventing the salary cap and calling the allegations “absurd.”

“Neither the Clippers nor Steve Ballmer circumvented the salary cap. The notion that Steve invested in Aspiration in order to funnel money to Kawhi Leonard is absurd,” the team said on Wednesday. “

“There is nothing unusual or untoward about team sponsors doing endorsement deals with players on the same team. Neither Steve nor the Clippers organization had any oversight of Kawhi’s independent endorsement agreement with Aspiration. To say otherwise is flat-out wrong. The Clippers take NBA compliance extremely seriously, fully respect the league’s rules, and welcome its investigation related to Aspiration. The Clippers will also continue to cooperate with law enforcement in its investigation into Aspiration’s blatantly fraudulent activity.”

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