The NBA is reportedly expanding its investigation into Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard to include a second sponsorship or endorsement arrangement beyond the deal that originally drew scrutiny. The Athletic reports that a law firm conducting the inquiry is examining another Leonard endorsement deal, previously not included in the public understanding of the probe. The initial focus was an Aspiration sponsorship, described as an environmental bank, tied to questions about whether there was a proper performance or delivery under the agreement.
Multiple reports say the investigation is being handled by outside law firm Wachtell Lipton and has been ongoing for nearly a year. Yahoo Sports notes the investigation is in its 11th month and that its status has affected league and team timelines, including delaying a trade intended to send Leonard back to the Toronto Raptors.
The Athletic also reports that investigators have looked into whether the Clippers improperly paid for certain Leonard expenses in connection with the sponsorship arrangements. Overall, sources describe an inquiry that now covers more than one financial arrangement involving Leonard, with the uncertainty continuing to influence transaction planning.
