Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling, who was banned from the NBA for life on Tuesday after recorded audio of racist remarks went public over the weekend, has been battling prostate cancer, as first reported by the NY Post and confirmed by ESPN Los Angeles.
Donald Sterling is fighting prostate cancer, according to report
The situation in Los Angeles keeps evolving. According to reports, Donald Sterling is battling prostate cancer.
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Sterling has been under fire recently since TMZ first released tapes of the Clippers owner making racist remarks to girlfriend V. Stiviano on Saturday. After an investigation by the NBA confirmed that Sterling made the taped remarks, commissioner Adam Silver moved swiftly to levy a lifetime ban and $2.5 million fine against the owner.
The Donald Sterling Situation
With the league also pushing to remove the 80-year-old from ownership, his health could add an interesting layer to the future of the franchise. Silver said on Tuesday the NBA would move forward with plans to force Sterling out, which requires a 75 percent vote from the other 29 franchises, or 22 owners assenting to Silver’s plan.
Many have assumed that Sterling, a former lawyer with a history of lawsuits, would send things to court. However, it is unclear how his looming health issues might impact what ultimately happens to the franchise. Given his immense wealth, Sterling will presumably have access to the best doctors and medicine available.
Sterling bought the Clippers in 1981 for $12.5 million. If the league does eventually force him (or his estate) to sell, the profits will reach well beyond nine figures.
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