By Tonte Davies
Don Sterling probably saw it coming .
After days of speculation and vocal criticism from NBA stars and fans alike, many welcomed yesterday’s announcement of a lifetime ban by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. The ban does not just affect game attendance but activities related to his operations of NBA franchise, LA Clippers. Adam Silver also announced a fine of $2.5 million on the 80-year-old real estate billionaire mogul.
Silver went on to say he will ‘urge the board of governors to force a sale of the team and will do everything in my power to ensure that happens … the [NBA] owners have the authority subject to three-quarters vote, to remove him [Sterling] as owner.’ Describing the situation as ‘painful,’ the Commissioner went on to say the NBA is united against Sterling’s comments. ‘
Incidentally, Silver did not go to the owners first before making the announcement, choosing the media, a strategy to garner support. And it looks like the strategy is working. Comments and support have been pouring in for Silver after the announcement was made. Former NBA All-Star and current Sacramento Mayor, Kevin Johnson said “On this day, Adam Silver is not only the owners’ Commissioner, he is the players’ Commissioner and we’re proud to call him our commissioner.”
Magic Johnson tweeted his support saying “Commissioner Silver showed great leadership in banning LA Clippers owner Donald Sterling for life.” LA Lakers guard Steve Nash also reacted to the decision saying “I think today is a very proud moment…it begs a bigger question: if racism is a learned behaviour, how long will it go on for?”
Franchise owners also chimed, Bruce Levenson, Atlantic Hawks majority owner said “I commend Commissioner Adam Silver in being diligent in how he handled this important matter.” Mr. Levenson had previously expressed his willingness to “vote to remove Sterling if a vote was taken.” Press statements from franchises like Chicago Bulls and Boston Celtics have been released denouncing Sterling’s racial comments.
Sterling’s comments were made public when news media agency TMZ posted an audio recording on its website in which he rebukes his girlfriend for posting pictures of herself on Instagram with minorities including Basketball Hall of Famer Magic Johnson and Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Matt Kemp.
“Why are you taking pictures with minorities, why?” Sterling quizzes his girlfriend in the leaked recording.
This is not the first time Sterling is accused of racist behaviour or comments, as in 2005, Sterling was sued for attempted forceful eviction of non-Koreans from Korea town. He is the NBA’s longest serving owner since 1981.