THE STERLING AFFAIRS Part 2: The Opposite of Showtime (2019)
May 28, 2024
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Explore the rise and fall of Donald Sterling as the controversial owner of the San Diego Clippers, his financial partnership with Jerry Buss, lavish lifestyle of 80s LA, scandalous parties, and uncomfortable interactions with players.
50:14
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Quick takeaways
Donald Sterling's frugality and controversial remarks showcased a unique ownership approach.
Sterling's disregard for player welfare and belittling behaviors damaged team morale.
The move to Staples Center boosted the Clippers' value, highlighting Sterling's profit-centric strategy.
Deep dives
Donald Sterling's Purchase of the San Diego Clippers
In 1981, Donald Sterling acquired the San Diego Clippers, envisioning long-term value despite their poor performance. Sterling helped facilitate the Lakers sale to Bus, leading to his basketball venture. Despite hopes to revamp the Clippers, Sterling's frugality and controversial remarks highlighted his different approach to ownership.
Donald Sterling's Questionable Actions as Clippers Owner
Sterling's reluctance to invest in player facilities and his undermining negotiation tactics strained player relationships. His blatant disregard for player welfare and penchant for belittling them during games diminished morale. The locker room atmosphere, coupled with his controversial remarks, reflected a disconnect and ownership approach at odds with the norms of professional sports.
Move to Staples Center and Clippers' Shift in Fortune
The Staples Center move, initially contentious, eventually benefitted Sterling. The venue and TV deal upped the team's value despite minimal player investment. This shift to LA brought increased ticket sales and enriched Sterling, illustrating his profit-centric strategy over fostering a competitive team.
Sterling's Controversial Behavior and Party Culture
Sterling's lavish parties and controversial behavior highlighted his desire for attention and social standing. From questionable party attendees to his demeanor within the player locker rooms, Sterling's actions underscored a disconnect with conventional ownership expectations and professionalism.
Donald Sterling's Troubled Legacy
Sterling's tenure as Clippers owner showcased a stark contrast to traditional and ethical ownership norms. His focus on profit over player welfare and questionable conduct tarnished his legacy within the sports community. His controversial remarks, lack of investment in player amenities, and disregard for team performance reflect a tumultuous and disruptive era in the Clippers' history.
Throughout the 80s and 90s, the Clippers were horrible and Donald Sterling was known as the worst owner in sports. But Donald Sterling wasn't the joke we all thought he was.
This series was originally aired in 2019. We’re re-releasing it in anticipation of the FX and Hulu series, Clipped, a six-part sports drama based on The Sterling Affairs.
