Clippers Coach Dedicates Opening Night Win to Suspended Owner Steve Ballmer
Tyronn Lue stated the victory over the Kings was "for Mr. Ballmer" as the team plays under sanctions.
Los Angeles Clippers Head Coach Tyronn Lue dedicated the team's 121-96 Opening Night victory over the Sacramento Kings to owner Steve Ballmer. Ballmer is currently serving a one-year suspension for violating the NBA’s salary cap circumvention rules.
"That win was for Mr. Ballmer," Lue said after the game. "Just want to say thank you for everything. We’re still fighting for him."
Ballmer is prohibited from participating in any league or team activities during his suspension, which includes all communication with the Clippers organization. The team was also penalized with a $30 million fine and the forfeiture of five future first-round draft picks.
Following the NBA's sanctions, the Clippers organization has been working to rebuild trust with its fanbase. This effort began at media day, where interim president of basketball operations Trent Redden issued an apology to fans. The team also implemented initiatives for Opening Night, such as offering free parking to fans who arrived an hour before tip-off at Intuit Dome and a jersey swap program.
Guard Darius Garland echoed Lue's sentiments, emphasizing the team's motivation to win for the suspended owner. "We were trying to protect home court," Garland said. "It’s the house he built. He was definitely here in spirit… We felt his energy for sure."