Pablo Torre Finds Out The Mystery Investor, the No-Show Payday and the "Smoking Gun": Kawhi-Gate, Part III
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Sep 11, 2025 David Samson, former president of the Miami Marlins, and Amin Elhassan, NBA analyst, return to dissect the unfolding Kawhi-Gate scandal. They reveal shocking details about financial irregularities linked to the LA Clippers and a mysterious new investor tied to Kawhi Leonard. The conversation covers the challenges of NBA governance, salary cap circumvention allegations, and the financial turmoil at Aspiration. Amid serious allegations, the duo infuses humor, likening the situation to a rotting apple tree to highlight the pressing issues in professional sports.
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Allegation Sparks Immediate Backlash
- Pablo Torre's reporting alleges the Clippers used a no-show Aspiration contract to circumvent the NBA salary cap.
- The claim prompted immediate high-profile attention including a rebuttal from Steve Ballmer and scrutiny from owners.
Payments And Ballmer's Stake Raise Flags
- Aspiration allegedly gave Kawhi $20M in stock on top of $28M cash, totaling about $48M.
- That raised alarm among owners when they learned Ballmer had invested $50M in Aspiration.
Aspiration In December 2022 Was Failing
- A senior Aspiration finance executive described December 2022 as a "s*** show" with layoffs and near inability to make payroll.
- Executives retained counsel and warned they needed assurances in writing before bringing in investors.