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Clippers Rout Kings to Open Season Without Ballmer
The team overcame the absence of its suspended owner with a decisive victory at Intuit Dome.
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Strong Start in Owner's Absence
The Clippers began their season with a 121-96 win over the Kings before 17,927 fans at Intuit Dome. Steve Ballmer is serving a one-year suspension that bars him from all league and team activities. The team dedicated the victory to the owner and showed resolve to keep competing during his time away.
Details of the Suspension and Penalties
Ballmer received the ban in September after the league determined the team violated salary cap rules tied to Kawhi Leonard. The penalties include a $30 million fine already paid by the organization, the loss of five consecutive first-round draft picks from 2029 through 2033, and a six-month suspension for president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank.
Team Reflects on Missing Energy
Players and staff noted the unusual feel of the arena without Ballmer's usual presence in his courtside seat. The owner privately financed the $2 billion Intuit Dome project that opened in 2024.
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