Ballmer accepts NBA penalties
Steve Ballmer has decided to abandon a potential legal challenge against the NBA over the punishment imposed on the Los Angeles Clippers for salary cap circumvention involving Kawhi Leonard.
The Clippers were forced to forfeit five first-round picks, while Ballmer will serve a one-year suspension. Basketball operations president Lawrence Frank was suspended for six months, while Gillian Zucker is facing a one-year suspension.
“This has been a very difficult time”
Ballmer acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and accepted responsibility as the franchise’s principal owner.
“This has been a very difficult time for everybody associated with the Clippers, and for that, I have sincere regrets. I want to apologize to our fans, employees, and my fellow NBA team owners for the distraction and distress this matter has caused, for which I accept responsibility as principal owner”.
“We are committing to put this chapter behind us”
Ballmer confirmed that the franchise will accept the penalties and move forward.
“We are committing to put this chapter behind us. We have communicated to the NBA that we are complying with the penalties assessed by the league, have paid the fine, and are moving forward”.
However, Ballmer made clear that he still disagrees with some of the findings in the report.
“While there are still disagreements concerning the findings in the report, this is not where I want to focus. Team owners should support, not distract”.
“We will continue to build our team”
Ballmer also pledged that the Clippers will continue investing in the roster and the community.
“The challenges ahead of us are significant, but so is our resolve. We will continue to build our team and invest in our community. The confidence of our fans is our priority”.
“With our talented roster, outstanding staff and clear vision, I am certain that we will compete at the highest level and be an organization our fans can be proud of”.
The Kawhi Leonard situation
The Clippers agreed in June to trade Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors, but the trade has not yet become official.
Source: RealGM Staff Report / Los Angeles Clippers Los Angeles Clippers
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