The podcast discusses the fallout from Donald Sterling's controversial remarks, the unity among NBA players against racism, Adam Silver's ban on Mr. Sterling, NBA players advocating for human rights, and the drama surrounding the ownership of the team with a celebrity bidding war.
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Quick takeaways
NBA players grappled with boycotting a playoff game over Donald Sterling controversy.
Coach Doc Rivers' leadership helped the Clippers navigate the fallout from the scandal with unity.
Deep dives
Clippers and Warriors Considered Boycotting Playoff Game
Players from the Clippers and the Warriors were on the verge of boycotting an NBA playoff game due to the Donald Sterling controversy. The teams prepared to boycott game five if a drastic action wasn't taken. Looking back, many players expressed regrets about not boycotting and wondered about the potential impact on sports history.
Doc Rivers' Crucial Role During the Sterling Scandal
Doc Rivers, coach of the Clippers, played a pivotal role in navigating the fallout from the Donald Sterling scandal. He urged his players to speak with one voice, shielded them from media scrutiny, and emphasized unity within the team amidst the turmoil. Rivers' leadership and composure under pressure were significant throughout the challenging period.
Adam Silver's Historic Decision to Ban Donald Sterling
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver made a historic decision to ban Donald Sterling for life from any association with the Clippers or the NBA. Following a swift investigation and consultation with players, coaches, and owners, Silver found Sterling's remarks crossed a line that undermined the league's values, leading to the lifetime ban and a $2.5 million fine.
Clippers' Symbolic On-Court Protest and Game Outcome
In a symbolic on-court protest, the Clippers removed their warm-up shirts and turned them inside out to conceal the team's logo. Despite their protest, the Clippers faced a challenging game against the Warriors and lost, highlighting the emotional toll and distraction caused by the Sterling scandal during the playoffs.
When the explosive tape of Donald Sterling broke, it came at a moment when power in the NBA was changing. Players, owners, and a new commissioner were faced with a major test that would re-shape the league.
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.