NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirmed that the 2026 All-Star Game will remain at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, despite the ongoing investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers’ potential salary cap violations involving Kawhi Leonard’s endorsement deal.
Speaking Monday at NBC Sports headquarters, Silver told reporters there is “no contemplation” of moving the event, emphasizing that preparations for the All-Star festivities are proceeding independently of the probe. The league’s showcase game, featuring a new U.S. vs. International format, is set for February 15 and will air on NBC.
The investigation began after journalist Pablo Torre reported details of a $28 million endorsement agreement between Leonard and Aspiration Fund Adviser LLC, a California-based sustainability company that has since filed for bankruptcy. Clippers owner Steve Ballmer previously invested $50 million in the firm, which also entered a $300 million partnership with the team in 2021.
Reportedly, team executives remain confident that the organization acted within league rules and expect to be cleared once the review is complete. One executive described the ongoing situation as “exhausting” but insisted the front office is “not afraid” of potential sanctions.
The inquiry, conducted by the law firm Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, is focused on whether Leonard’s endorsement constituted a form of salary cap circumvention. NBA insider Jake Fischer reported that the investigation is unlikely to conclude before the All-Star break, extending uncertainty into the latter half of the 2024-25 season.
If violations are proven, the NBA has the authority to impose significant penalties. These could include a fine of up to $7.5 million for the Clippers, a $350,000 fine for Leonard, forfeiture of draft picks, suspensions for team officials, or even voiding Leonard’s contract, which runs through the 2026-27 campaign.
Former executive John Hollinger wrote in The Athletic that the allegations are viewed as “beyond the pale” in league circles, suggesting punishment could be severe if wrongdoing is found. However, he also noted that a contract voiding scenario could unexpectedly open salary cap space for Los Angeles in future offseasons.
Ballmer has denied any involvement in the endorsement arrangement, maintaining that the franchise has complied with all NBA regulations.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the investigation, Silver reiterated that the All-Star Weekend — the first hosted at the state-of-the-art venue — will proceed as scheduled. The arena is also slated to host basketball events during the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
