LOS ANGELES (AP) – Steve Ballmer officially became the new owner of the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday.
The team said the sale closed after a California court confirmed the authority of Shelly Sterling, on behalf of the Sterling Family Trust, to sell the franchise to the former Microsoft CEO. Her estranged husband, Donald Sterling, had unsuccessfully fought the sale of the team he owned since 1981 in court.
The NBA Board of Governors had previously approved the $2 billion sale.
“I am humbled and honored to be the new owner of the Los Angeles Clippers,” Ballmer said in a statement. “Clipper fans are so amazing. They have remained fiercely loyal to our franchise through some extraordinary times.”
Ballmer added he will be “hardcore” in giving the team, coach Doc Rivers, the staff and players the support they need.