The NBA has reportedly opened up an investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers’ signing of Kawhi Leonard following a lawsuit from a man who claims Jerry West promised him $2.5 million in exchange for his help in convincing the two-time NBA champion to join the team.
According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, the claims – published via TMZ Sports – were troubling enough to have prompted the league to look into the Clippers’ affairs.
“The TMZ report published on Monday detailed a lawsuit filed by Johnny Wilkes alleging that Jerry West owed him $2.5 million for his role in helping the Clippers land Kawhi Leonard. The NBA, as reported, has deemed it concerning enough to investigate,” Amick also tweeted on Thursday evening.
The individual alleges he helped broker a deal between the Clippers and Kawhi’s “Uncle Dennis” that saw the forward’s infamous family member land a house and a traveling expense account from the NBA organization.
West has since denied the accusations via a spokesperson.
“I am not aware of any lawsuit being filed against me,” he was quoted as saying, “and I deny engaging in any improper conduct in connection with the signing of Kawhi Leonard.”
