User Tools

Site Tools


los_angeles_clippers

Los Angeles Clippers

Humble Beginnings

The Clippers were originally founded as the Buffalo Braves in 1970.1)

Name Change Journey

They became the San Diego Clippers in 1978 before moving to Los Angeles in 1984.2)

Why “Clippers”?

The name “Clippers” refers to clipper ships, fast-sailing vessels often seen off the San Diego coast.3)

LA Arrival

The team moved to Los Angeles without NBA approval—a controversial move by then-owner Donald Sterling.4)

The Shared Arena

For decades, the Clippers shared Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center) with the Lakers and Kings.5)

New Home Incoming

The Clippers will move into their own arena, the Intuit Dome, starting in the 2024–25 season.6)

Famous Former Owner

Donald Sterling owned the Clippers from 1981 to 2014 before being banned for racist remarks.7)

Historic Sale

The Clippers were sold to Steve Ballmer, former Microsoft CEO, for $2 billion—a record at the time.8)

Energetic Owner

Ballmer is known for his high-energy courtside reactions and genuine love for the team.9)

Logo Evolution

The Clippers have changed their logo multiple times, most recently in 2024, moving to a modern, minimalist look.10)

Star-Studded Cast

The team has featured stars like Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, Kawhi Leonard, and Paul George.11)

Lob City Era

From 2011 to 2017, the team was nicknamed “Lob City” for their high-flying alley-oop style.12)

Doc Rivers’ Tenure

Doc Rivers coached the team from 2013 to 2020, helping rebuild its reputation.13)

Kawhi & PG Duo

In 2019, the Clippers acquired Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, forming a championship-contending duo.14)

No NBA Finals Yet

Despite recent success, the Clippers have never reached the NBA Finals.15)

Best Season Ever

Their best regular season record came in 2013–14, finishing 57–25.16)

Playoff Breakthrough

In 2021, the Clippers reached their first Western Conference Finals, losing to the Suns.17)

Most Memorable Comeback

The Clippers once overcame a 31-point playoff deficit against the Warriors in 2019—the largest in NBA playoff history.18)

Sixth Man Legacy

Players like Jamal Crawford and Lou Williams won multiple NBA Sixth Man of the Year awards with the team.19)

Under-the-Radar Star

Elton Brand was a two-time All-Star and consistent leader during the 2000s.20)

Eric Piatkowski’s Longevity

He holds the record for most games played as a Clipper—616 games.21)

Dunk Highlights

Blake Griffin’s dunk over Kendrick Perkins is one of the most iconic plays in franchise history.22)

Hollywood Ties

Due to their LA location, many celebrities attend Clippers games, including Billy Crystal, a lifelong fan.23)

Once an Underdog

The Clippers were considered the NBA’s worst franchise during the 1980s and 1990s.24)

Notable Trades

The team traded for Chris Paul in 2011, which helped usher in the Lob City era.25)

Jersey Numbers Retired?

The Clippers have not officially retired any jersey numbers, though this may change with future legends.26)

Mascot Mania

Their mascot, Chuck the Condor, debuted in 2016 and has become a fan favorite.27)

Clippers Nation

Though long overshadowed by the Lakers, the Clippers have built a growing, loyal fan base.28)

Young Talent

In recent years, players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Terance Mann have emerged as rising stars.29)

Top Scorer

Randy Smith is still the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, dating back to the Buffalo days.30)

los_angeles_clippers.txt · Last modified: 2025/06/12 06:05 by eziothekilla34