Maccabi Tel Aviv Candidate Daniel Theis Linked to NBA Investment Probe Involving Kawhi Leonard and Clippers
Daniel Theis, a new candidate for Maccabi Tel Aviv, has been connected to an ongoing investigation into the business dealings of NBA star Kawhi Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers. The probe centers on investments made by NBA figures in the Rhode Island FC soccer club. Although Theis's name surfaced due to his investment in Rhode Island FC, there is no evidence suggesting he committed any wrongdoing or that his investment influenced his subsequent contract with the Clippers.
In March 2023, Rhode Island FC publicly announced Theis joining its ownership group with enthusiasm, stating, "The roster continues to strengthen and grow taller. We are excited to welcome Daniel Theis to the RIFC ownership group." This announcement drew attention because Leonard, his cousin, his business advisor Dennis Robertson, and former agent Mitch Frankel also acquired stakes in the club, though their involvement was never officially disclosed by Rhode Island FC.
Investigative journalist Pablo Torre highlighted the discrepancy in public disclosures, questioning why Theis's NBA player status was publicized while Leonard's high-profile investment remained secret. Rhode Island FC responded that it maintains confidentiality regarding the extent and value of private investors' stakes unless previously disclosed. This secrecy contrasted sharply with the openness about Theis, becoming a focal point of the investigation.
The story gained further complexity as Theis later became a teammate of Leonard on the Clippers during the 2023/24 NBA season. Torre noted the coincidence but suggested it might be just that, given the limited number of NBA teams. Theis's representatives initially agreed to an interview with WPRI, a collaborating news outlet, but later ceased responding to inquiries about his involvement with the soccer club. Details about the size or timing of Theis's investment and any direct business ties to Leonard remain unknown.
The investigation also revealed that Leonard, Robertson, and Frankel's investments extended beyond the soccer club to real estate projects near the stadium. Unlike Theis, Leonard was never officially presented as an investor, did not appear in the club's promotional materials, and was not known to attend any games. Meanwhile, Maccabi Tel Aviv remains optimistic about finalizing Theis's signing. The probe into these NBA-linked investments continues.
