NBA

NBA Investigates Clippers Over Kawhi Salary-Cap Scandal

Kawhi Leonard (LA Clippers)
September 2025

The NBA launched an investigation into Kawhi Leonard’s $28m “no-show” endorsement deal with failed tree-planting firm Aspiration, allegedly linked to Clippers owner Steve Ballmer. Documents suggest the deal was designed to skirt salary cap rules. If proven, penalties could include heavy fines, lost draft picks, voided contracts, and suspensions. The Clippers deny wrongdoing, insisting the partnership ended before Aspiration’s collapse.

Ben Simmons Reportedly Considering Retirement

Ben Simmons
September 2025

Former All-Star Ben Simmons is weighing retirement at age 29 as injuries and mental struggles derail his once-promising career. After three All-Star nods and Rookie of the Year honours, Simmons has battled chronic back and nerve issues alongside criticism of his shooting. Once a 12+ FGA player, he averaged just 4.4 attempts last season with Brooklyn and LA.

Celtics Urged to Tank After Roster Collapse

Boston Celtics
September 2025

The Boston Celtics, 2024 NBA champions, face calls to tank the season after losing Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, Luke Kornet, and Jayson Tatum to injury or exits. With a depleted squad, Caroline Fenton suggested embracing a rebuild and targeting local star prospect AJ Dybansta in the draft. Despite remaining talent, analysts believe Boston no longer has a championship-calibre roster.

Cousins: Chris Paul Not a Top-Five PG

DeMarcus Cousins
September 2025

Former NBA All-Star DeMarcus Cousins said Chris Paul should not be considered a top-five all-time point guard, sparking debate as Paul enters his 21st season. Cousins argued accolades favour Steve Nash, John Stockton, and Russell Westbrook, who won MVP. While acknowledging Paul’s greatness, he claimed Paul’s lack of top-tier honours leaves him outside the all-time top-five

Lakers Eye Giannis in Dream Trade Scenario

Los Angeles Lakers
September 2025

The Lakers are reportedly eyeing Giannis Antetokounmpo as a dream target, with Austin Reaves tipped as the likely centerpiece in any trade package. Analyst Anthony Irwin suggested Milwaukee would demand Reaves in return if Giannis requested a move. While still speculative, the Lakers’ desire to pair Giannis with LeBron James and Luka Doncic signals long-term planning.

Hall of Fame Coach George Raveling Dies at 88

George Raveling
September 2025

Hall of Fame coach George Raveling, known for linking Michael Jordan with Nike and revolutionising sports endorsements, has died aged 88. Raveling coached Washington State, Iowa, and USC, and later worked at Nike. He was pivotal in Jordan’s Nike deal, introducing him to Sonny Vaccaro. Michael Jordan called him a lifelong mentor who shaped basketball history.

Lue Slams Knicks for Firing Thibodeau

Tyronn Lue (LA Clippers)
September 2025


LA Clippers coach Tyronn Lue criticised the New York Knicks for firing Tom Thibodeau despite reaching the Eastern Conference Finals, calling the decision baffling after a successful 51-31 season. Lue told Shannon Sharpe the Knicks acted rashly in replacing Thibodeau with Mike Brown. With stars Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, Lue argued New York wasted momentum by prioritising “championship or bust” over consistency.

Warriors Linked to Brogdon Amid Roster Gaps

Malcolm Brogdon
September 2025

Golden State Warriors, with only nine contracted players, are linked with free agent Malcolm Brogdon, though insiders predict he may join the Timberwolves instead. Golden State’s inactivity stems from ongoing Jonathan Kuminga issues. Brogdon, recovering from injuries, averaged 12.7 points for Washington last season. He could offer depth and playmaking behind Stephen Curry if signed, though Minnesota remain favourites.

Miami Heat Could Trade Herro to Pistons

Miami Heat
September 2025

Miami Heat could trade Tyler Herro and Nikola Jović to Detroit in exchange for Tobias Harris, Ron Holland II and draft picks, as Pat Riley seeks a “difference-maker.” Herro’s scoring has value, but Miami reportedly doubt his star ceiling. With Norman Powell not filling the void, Miami may sacrifice Herro and Jović for future flexibility, while Detroit envision Herro as a backcourt partner for Cade Cunningham.

Cuban Reflects on Doncic Lakers Trade

Mark Cuban
September 2025

Former Mavericks owner Mark Cuban reflected on Luka Doncic’s stunning trade to the Lakers, saying he still has a strong personal bond with the Slovenian despite the shock move. Cuban admitted on Gilbert Arenas’ podcast he “loves Luka off the court but not on it” after losing the superstar he once tried to connect with by learning Slovenian. The trade remains one of the NBA’s most seismic.