Clippers Allegations Uncovers Surprise Twist Amid Ongoing Investigation

Andrei Cherny, co-founder and former CEO of Aspiration, has publicly disputed allegations that Kawhi Leonard’s endorsement deal was a "no-show" job. Cherny stated on social media that the contract included three pages of specific obligations Leonard was required to fulfill, and that Aspiration had the right to terminate the agreement if those obligations were not met.

Cherny further emphasized that he does not recall any discussions about the NBA salary cap during negotiations for Leonard’s sponsorship deal. He mentioned that the contract was signed shortly before his resignation and that there were internal plans at Aspiration to collaborate with Leonard during the 2022-23 season.

In response, journalist Pablo Torre obtained and shared a joint statement from Aspiration’s former CFO, COO/CLO, and CTO, which contradicted Cherny’s claims. The executives stated that the Leonard deal faced significant internal objections due to its high cost and misalignment with the company’s brand and business strategy.

The former executives characterized the deal as a "complete arrangement" executed by Cherny despite management concerns. They noted that subsequent marketing efforts were discontinued and should not be seen as endorsement of the agreement, which they believed was not in the company’s best interest.

With new information continuing to emerge, the NBA’s investigation into the LA Clippers’ alleged salary cap circumvention is expected to take longer than initially anticipated.