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Everyone knew the NBA had to and was going to make an announcement about a decision regarding Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling’s horrible racist remarks in a taped phone conversation. Few probably expected a life ban from the NBA.
Per reports, Sterling has officially been banned for life from any association with the Clippers or the NBA, and will also be fined the maximum $2.5 million from the NBA. Sterling’s racist views ignited disgust from many, but new NBA commissioner Adam Silver took it a step further and viewed Sterling as too big of a distraction to not eradicate completely.
The move means Sterling can never leave an imprint on anything related to the NBA ever again, while it almost certainly figures to force him to sell the Clippers, as well.
The league still needs a 75% vote from the other NBA owners to approve the removal of Sterling’s ownership, which is fully expected to take place.
Big names such as Oprah Winfrey and former Los Angeles Lakers forward Earvin “Magic” Johnson have already emerged as potential buyers with various groups. Johnson was even cited in Sterling’s racist rant and has been the subject of rumors regarding the potential buying of the soon to be available NBA franchise.
With Sterling being kept away from the team for good, Clippers president Andy Roeser will take over the day to day operation of the team.
While the business aspect has been closely monitored, the Clippers themselves appeared to breathe a sigh of relief on the court on Tuesday night. With a dark cloud removed from over their heads, Chris Paul and co. battled the Golden State Warriors on their home court, taking a 3-2 series lead. DeAndre Jordan led a spirited fight, dominating inside the paint to the tune of 25 points and 18 rebounds.
