What Al Gore and Paul Allen Think About the Donald Sterling Ban
The 13 best reactions to owner’s lifetime ban.
April 30, 2014— -- Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling was banned for life from the NBA Tuesday, three days after recordings emerged of Sterling’s racist ramblings with girlfriend V. Stiviano.
The recordings sent shockwaves throughout the league, as well as popular culture.
Breaking Down the Donald Sterling Scandal: The Audio, the Lawsuits, the Reactions
Players were quick to credit NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
LeBron James, one of the game’s superstars, called Silver a “great leader.”
NBA icons such as Magic Johnson, whose photo with Stiviano sparked Sterling’s outburst, were thankful that Silver took action.
Owners also weighed in.
What We Know About V. Stiviano, Woman Accused of Leaking Racist Rant
Fellow owners are now tasked with voting through Silver’s measures, which would require Sterling to sell the team.
Other responses came in from comedians, humorists and even former Vice President Al Gore.
One of the most notable reactions came from the Clippers, the team Sterling, 80, has owned since 1981. After Silver’s announcement, the team website was refashioned to show the phrase, “We are one,” a statement of solidarity amid the struggle.