April 29, 2014
Ernesto McConnell
Reporter
Headlines
On Tuesday, April 29th, 2014, NBA commissioner Adam Silver banned Donald Sterling from the NBA for life. Silver released the following statement at a press conference earlier this afternoon:
“Effective immediately I am banning Mr. Sterling for life from any association with the Clippers’ organization or the NBA. Mr. Sterling may not attend any NBA games or practices. He may not be present at any Clippers’ facility and he may not participate in any business or player-personnel decisions involving the team. He will also be barred from attending NBA Board of Governors meetings or participating in any other league activities.”
In addition to the lifetime ban, Sterling is being fined $2.5 million, which is the maximum amount any person can be fined per the NBA Constitution. According to Silver, the $2.5 million will be donated to organizations dedicated to anti-discrimination and tolerance efforts.
This ruling follows a complete investigation by the NBA after an audio recording was leaked to media on Saturday, April 26, 2014, that revealed a conversation between Sterling and his girlfriend, V. Stiviano. The comments made by Silver were described by Silver as “hateful opinions,” “deeply offensive, and hurtful.”
