The Clippers have put John S. Gibson in charge of the franchise’s day-to-day direction, naming the longtime season-ticket holder interim CEO and governor while Steve Ballmer serves his NBA suspension.
| NBA discipline | Result |
|---|---|
| Ballmer suspension | One year |
| Fine assessed to Clippers | $30 million |
| First-round picks forfeited | Five |
| Gibson’s tenure at DLA Piper | Six years |
Gibson takes over basketball and business oversight
Gibson will immediately handle both the basketball and business sides of the Clippers, while also holding the club’s place in NBA voting during Ballmer’s absence.
The move follows the league’s salary-cap circumvention ruling against Ballmer and the franchise. Ballmer initially indicated the team would challenge what it described as a biased investigation, but later said he would not contest the punishment. He has said the Clippers already paid the $30 million fine.
“I am honored to take on this responsibility and grateful for the opportunity to serve an organization I have supported for many years,” Gibson said. “My focus will be on supporting our people, providing steady leadership, and helping the organization continue moving forward.”
A legal background and a familiar face around the club
Gibson comes to the interim post after six years as a Los Angeles-based trial attorney and litigation partner at DLA Piper. He co-led the firm’s U.S. Business & Commercial Litigation practice.
His prior work included advising and representing large corporations, technology and health-care companies, professional sports organizations and business executives. He also arrives with a personal connection to the team as a longtime Clippers season-ticket holder.
