Steve Ballmer Talks NBA vs. Microsoft Differences, New Clippers Arena, NBA Growth & More | EP 25
Sep 11, 2023
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Former CEO of Microsoft and owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, Steve Ballmer, reveals insights into his early days at Microsoft and discusses how his leadership skills helped him with the Clippers. He shares the story of how he bought the Clippers and the challenges of being the Governor. They also discuss the current state of the NBA and its growth, as well as the evolution of the game and the importance of keeping it exciting for fans while balancing tradition and analytics.
Building relationships and bonds within the organization is crucial for success in both business and sports.
Steve Ballmer's deep-rooted passion for basketball and his unbridled enthusiasm as an owner contribute to his positive energy and impact on the team.
Delegation, trust, and respecting the expertise of key individuals are essential for effective leadership and decision-making in the Clippers organization.
Deep dives
Steve Ballmer's Journey to Owning the Clippers
Steve Ballmer reflects on his journey from Microsoft to becoming the owner of the Los Angeles Clippers. He discusses the importance of building relationships and bonds within the organization, especially between the team chairman and superstar players. Ballmer shares his deep-rooted passion for basketball and his love for the game, which began during his childhood. He also discusses the early days of Microsoft and how they never doubted the company's potential for success. Ballmer emphasizes the need for long-term vision and the ability to deliver short-term results in both business and sports. He acknowledges the role of luck in achieving success and offers insights into his leadership style as an owner.
The Energetic and Enthusiastic Owner
Ballmer's energy and enthusiasm as an owner is noted, piquing the curiosity of his fellow owners and players. He discusses the impact of his positive energy and how it stems from his love for the game and experiences as a sports fan. Ballmer shares his belief in being present for the team, attending games, and embracing the highs and lows of the season with unbridled enthusiasm. He also notes the importance of being a positive and supportive presence in the locker room, expressing gratitude to the team for their hard work and dedication.
Working Relationships and Input
Ballmer highlights his working relationships with key individuals within the Clippers organization, including team president Lawrence Frank, president of business Gillian Zucker, and consultant Jerry West. He emphasizes the importance of delegation and trust in allowing people to excel in their respective roles. Ballmer discusses his interactions with Coach Ty Lue, balancing his enthusiasm as a fan and owner with respecting the coach's autonomy and decision-making process. While he engages in discussions and seeks information from those involved in basketball operations, he recognizes the need to avoid micromanagement and defer to the expertise of the coaching staff.
Decision-Making and Financial Responsibilities
Ballmer acknowledges his responsibility as the owner in making key financial decisions, particularly in determining the team's payroll and luxury tax bill. He recognizes the impact of these decisions on the organization's financial success and notes the need for careful consideration in balancing team building and financial sustainability. While he seeks input and stays connected with key individuals, Ballmer understands the ultimate responsibility lies with him in ensuring the team's financial well-being.
The Journey to Building the Intuit Dome
Steve Ballmer, owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, shares the process of building the Intuit Dome. Initially, he didn't think the team needed its own arena, but realized the limitations of playing in a shared facility. He partnered with a real estate expert and went through a nine-year process of acquiring land and securing permissions. The goal was to create a fan-focused arena with more noise, comfort, and better sightlines. The Intuit Dome boasts unique features like an acre-sized scoreboard, spacious seats, and enhanced fan experiences.
The Future of the NBA and Clippers' Expectations
Steve Ballmer discusses the current state of the NBA and its growth as a global game. He believes basketball's intimate nature, absence of helmets, and relatability make it appealing to fans. He also highlights the evolving media landscape, with streaming taking over traditional TV broadcasts and offering new interactive experiences. From a team perspective, Ballmer acknowledges the Clippers' underdog status and the need to prove themselves. With talented players and a shared goal of winning, he expresses high expectations for the season and emphasizes the importance of staying healthy and having some luck.
In the season one finale of Podcast P, our special guest, Clippers Governor Steve Ballmer reveals the first time he met Paul George and gives insight to his early days at Microsoft. Steve shares the story of how he bought the Clippers, the early ups and downs of being the Governor, and how his leadership skills at Microsoft helped him with the team. Then Steve breaks down the reason he gets so crazy sitting courtside at the Clippers games and why it took so long to build the Intuit Dome. Finally, PG and Steve discuss the current state of the NBA, and we get some words of motivation for the upcoming Clippers season.
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