NBA Suspends Steve Ballmer Amid Controversial Endorsement Deal
By Editor • September 3, 2026 • 1 min read
Steve Ballmer, the former CEO of Microsoft and current owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, has been handed a hefty punishment by the NBA, resulting in a one-year suspension. This decision follows revelations from a detailed investigation into a dubious $28 million endorsement deal linked to star player Kawhi Leonard.
The controversy erupted last September when Ballmer publicly denied any wrongdoing during an ESPN interview, asserting that the Clippers were not involved in the questionable deal. However, a comprehensive 35-page report commissioned by the NBA has contradicted his claims, labeling them as "inaccurate (at best)" and "clearly false" regarding the actions of Clippers president Lawrence Frank.
In addition to his suspension, the NBA has imposed severe penalties on the Clippers franchise, including the forfeiture of five future draft picks and a $30 million fine. These measures reflect the league's commitment to maintaining integrity and transparency within its operations.
Source: www.theverge.com
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