The U.S. Department of Justice has launched a criminal investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers over allegations that they used sponsorship deals to circumvent NBA salary cap rules for star player Kawhi Leonard. The probe follows a $30 million fine and loss of draft picks imposed by the NBA for the team’s alleged violations. Multiple media outlets, including *The New York Times*, report that the investigation is examining whether the Clippers structured contracts to pay Leonard beyond the salary cap through off-the-books payments. The team has not yet commented on the ongoing inquiry. The case highlights growing scrutiny of financial practices in professional sports, with the FBI and federal prosecutors now involved in the matter. The NBA has already taken disciplinary action, but the criminal investigation adds a new layer of legal pressure on the franchise.