From EssentiallySports · Prit Chauhan · · 1m 10s
Adam Silver Clarifies LeBron James' Helicopter Deal
NBA commissioner Adam Silver says LeBron James' Fanatics helicopter access is legal under league rules.
In brief
NBA commissioner Adam Silver says LeBron James' Fanatics helicopter access is legal under league rules. NBA commissioner Adam Silver confirms LeBron James' Fanatics helicopter deal does not violate salary cap rules. Originally reported by EssentiallySports.
Pablo Torre Investigates
Pablo Torre is looking into LeBron James’ helicopter rides with Fanatics after NBA owners reported tips.
“we are very interested. we’re getting tips from nba owners”
Torre’s Background
Torre’s podcast won a Pulitzer Prize for reporting on the Clippers’ salary cap circumvention scandal.
James’ Helicopter Access

James uses Fanatics corporate aviation to travel between New York and Philadelphia for games.
Cost of Flights
One-way charters between the cities cost $4,000 to $10,000 but James doesn’t pay for them.
Silver’s Position
Silver says James’ Fanatics helicopter deal is permissible as long as no team is involved.
“i would just say in the case of lebron and that helicopter, he has a deal with fanatics”
Fanatics’ Role
Fanatics’ corporate aviation access is a feature of many top athlete deals.
Michael Rubin’s Ties
Michael Rubin sold his minority stake in the Sixers’ parent company in 2.022.
Timeline of Events
James joined the Sixers on July 24 after appearing at Fanatics Fest on July 17.
No Investigation
NBA has not investigated the helicopter arrangement as of October 20.
The headline
NBA commissioner Adam Silver confirms LeBron James' Fanatics helicopter deal does not violate salary cap rules.





