The Clippers were originally founded as the Buffalo Braves in 1970.1)
They became the San Diego Clippers in 1978 before moving to Los Angeles in 1984.2)
The name “Clippers” refers to clipper ships, fast-sailing vessels often seen off the San Diego coast.3)
The team moved to Los Angeles without NBA approval—a controversial move by then-owner Donald Sterling.4)
For decades, the Clippers shared Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center) with the Lakers and Kings.5)
The Clippers will move into their own arena, the Intuit Dome, starting in the 2024–25 season.6)
Donald Sterling owned the Clippers from 1981 to 2014 before being banned for racist remarks.7)
The Clippers were sold to Steve Ballmer, former Microsoft CEO, for $2 billion—a record at the time.8)
Ballmer is known for his high-energy courtside reactions and genuine love for the team.9)
The Clippers have changed their logo multiple times, most recently in 2024, moving to a modern, minimalist look.10)
The team has featured stars like Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, Kawhi Leonard, and Paul George.11)
From 2011 to 2017, the team was nicknamed “Lob City” for their high-flying alley-oop style.12)
Doc Rivers coached the team from 2013 to 2020, helping rebuild its reputation.13)
In 2019, the Clippers acquired Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, forming a championship-contending duo.14)
Despite recent success, the Clippers have never reached the NBA Finals.15)
Their best regular season record came in 2013–14, finishing 57–25.16)
In 2021, the Clippers reached their first Western Conference Finals, losing to the Suns.17)
The Clippers once overcame a 31-point playoff deficit against the Warriors in 2019—the largest in NBA playoff history.18)
Players like Jamal Crawford and Lou Williams won multiple NBA Sixth Man of the Year awards with the team.19)
Elton Brand was a two-time All-Star and consistent leader during the 2000s.20)
He holds the record for most games played as a Clipper—616 games.21)
Blake Griffin’s dunk over Kendrick Perkins is one of the most iconic plays in franchise history.22)
Due to their LA location, many celebrities attend Clippers games, including Billy Crystal, a lifelong fan.23)
The Clippers were considered the NBA’s worst franchise during the 1980s and 1990s.24)
The team traded for Chris Paul in 2011, which helped usher in the Lob City era.25)
The Clippers have not officially retired any jersey numbers, though this may change with future legends.26)
Their mascot, Chuck the Condor, debuted in 2016 and has become a fan favorite.27)
Though long overshadowed by the Lakers, the Clippers have built a growing, loyal fan base.28)
In recent years, players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Terance Mann have emerged as rising stars.29)
Randy Smith is still the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, dating back to the Buffalo days.30)