During the 1990s, the Chicago Bulls were one of the most dominant teams in the NBA. The Bulls were led to victories by none other than 'His Airness' Michael Jordan. Jordan helped the franchise win six NBA Championships during his prime.
But like every other amazing championship franchise in the history of the league, MJ wasn't the only person responsible for the success of the Bulls. Of course, he was the primary reason for the team's success, but he couldn't do it alone.
Toni Kukoc was one such player that aided MJ in winning those NBA Championships. Thanks to his contributions, he also earned a spot in the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Keeping that in mind, Kukoc also made a lot of money in his career. But making money and handling it are two different things. According to a recent report, it seems like the former Bulls star isn't too good at doing the latter.
Toni Kukoc Apparently Looted
As we mentioned earlier, it recently came to light that Kukoc was reportedly looted for around $11 million a few years ago. He is now suing his former Swiss bank for this fraud as well.
Via WBEZ:
The lawsuit alleges financial adviser Banfi and personal banker Zola worked together to “loot” Kukoc’s accounts. There were protocols in place to ensure Kukoc approved all transactions, but they weren’t followed.
Banfi and Zola are not named as defendants.
The lawsuit alleges Kukoc’s signature was forged on mortgage documents for a hotel project in Madulain, Switzerland.
“The mortgage documents purport to show that Kukoc signed some of the mortgage documents in Lugano, Switzerland, in December 2006,” according to the lawsuit. “However, Kukoc was not in Lugano, Switzerland, at this time, and never signed the documents.”
The lawsuit states, “either Banfi, Zola, or someone acting under their direction forged Kukoc’s signature.”
Kukoc is asking the court to award him $11 million plus interest, court costs, and “such other and further relief as this Court deems just and equitable,” according to the lawsuit. He wants a jury trial.
While the lawsuit has been filed by the former NBA star, whether he will get the money or not is something up for debate.
Regardless of the outcome, this incident should be a lesson to all current and former NBA players. Their wealth is something that is openly disclosed to the world, and it could lead to them being part of a fraud.
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