Steve Ballmer Backs Down on NBA Punishment, Apologizes as Clippers Accept M Fine

Steve Ballmer Backs Down on NBA Punishment, Apologizes as Clippers Accept $30M Fine

Steve Ballmer apologizes after Clippers accept $30M fine for salary cap violations. NBA suspends owner and penalizes team.

Editorial Desk

September 14, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Los Angeles, United States — Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer has reversed his stance on the NBA’s disciplinary actions against the team, apologizing and accepting a $30 million fine following an extensive investigation into alleged salary cap violations.

The NBA had previously suspended Ballmer for one year, fined the team $30 million, and forced it to forfeit five first-round draft picks. Ballmer acknowledged the penalties in a public statement, expressing regret for the disruption caused by the investigation, which found the team had violated salary cap rules involving Kawhi Leonard.

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Ballmer stated that while there are still disagreements with the findings, the focus should be on moving forward. The Clippers have paid the fine, and Ballmer expressed commitment to rebuilding the team and maintaining the trust of fans and employees.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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