Steve Ballmer Claims He Was 'Duped' in $28 Million Kawhi Leonard Deal: Must-Watch Video

Steve Ballmer, owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, has disclosed that he feels he was deceived in a controversial $28 million arrangement involving star player Kawhi Leonard. Ballmer’s assertion comes after news broke regarding Leonard’s deal with Aspiration, a now-defunct digital banking and tree-planting startup whose co-founder has admitted to fraudulent activities. This revelation was presented by journalist Pablo Torre in his podcast “Pablo Torre Finds Out.” Torre's report indicated that Aspiration initially compensated Leonard $21 million, with an outstanding $7 million owed via his firm, KL2 Aspire, LLC. The contract stipulates minimal obligations on Leonard's part but includes provisions that could void the agreement if he changes teams or retires. Despite his $50 million investment in Aspiration in 2021, Ballmer emphasized that he had no involvement in the Leonard deal. The NBA has since cleared the Clippers of any wrongdoing regarding these allegations, although it remains open to reopening investigations if further evidence emerges.