Steve Ballmer's opinions on the Clippers couldn't be clearerAs for Staples Center, Ballmer is proud that his team has made it a Clippers home on game nights, complete with covering up the Lakers' banners, but he said it's only natural to want more priority, which could eventually mean building his own arena.
"We're third guy in, we have third choice in dates," he said. "If you are a good businessman, you don't come to the end of your lease and say, 'I have no options, landlord, please take me to the woodshed and beat me.' We'll have options."Ballmer also confirmed what he has been stating since he bought the team, that the Clippers will make their stand in Los Angeles, not in his Seattle home, and he cited an easily understandable reason.
"This team, outside of Los Angeles, isn't worth what I paid for it," Ballmer said. "It's worth what I paid for it because it is in this market with its financial opportunities and buyer base. I'm not moving this team. I'm happy to be playing in Los Angeles, and when it comes time to renew our lease, we'll either renew here or we'll build here."
Bill Plaschke, LA Times
2 years ago, the Clippers extended their lease 10 more seasons, which will run through June 2024. At that time, STAPLES will be celebrating its 25th anniversary.