Los Angeles Clippers owner and governor Steve Ballmer accepted responsibility for the disruption surrounding the franchise’s salary-cap case, saying the club has paid its NBA fine and will comply with the league’s penalties.
Ballmer addressed fans, team employees and fellow NBA owners in a statement released after the league announced sanctions for salary-cap circumvention violations. He called the situation difficult for everyone connected to the organization and expressed regret for the fallout.
Quick facts
- Steve Ballmer said the Clippers will comply with the NBA’s imposed penalties.
- The franchise has already paid the fine, Ballmer said.
- Ballmer acknowledged continued disagreement with portions of the league report.
- He accepted responsibility as the team’s principal owner for the distraction created by the case.
- The Clippers intend to keep building the roster and investing in the community.
“I want to apologize to our fans, employees, and my fellow NBA team owners,” Ballmer said, adding that he was accountable for the distress and distraction tied to the matter.
The Clippers are not planning to publicly litigate every point in the NBA’s findings. Ballmer said there remain areas of disagreement with the report, but he does not want that dispute to become the organization’s focus.
“Team owners should support, not distract,” Ballmer said.
From the front-office seat, Ballmer’s message was clear: the penalty process is moving into the rearview mirror, even if the franchise does not fully agree with the league’s conclusions. He said the organization has informed the NBA of its compliance and is prepared to move ahead.
Ballmer also pointed to the work still in front of the Clippers, citing a talented roster, staff and long-term direction. He said restoring and maintaining fan confidence is the priority as the club continues its competitive push.
The owner said the team remains committed to investing in both the basketball operation and the local community, with the goal of becoming an organization Clippers fans can take pride in.
