The future of the Los Angeles Clippers is in flux after an audio recording of owner Donald Sterling going on a racist rant was discovered by TMZ. Now, the NBA is investigating and Sterling will likely face some sort of suspension as a result. But the league suspension would only just get the ball rolling on what is expected to be a mass amount of backlash on the owner that eventually hurts the team itself. Players are speaking out on on the matter while head coach Doc Rivers doubts his future in Los Angeles.
Kobe Bryant was one of the first players to make note of Sterling's comments. Back in 2004, Bryant heavily considered signing with Sterling and the Clippers. He no longer feels that way. Bryant took to Twitter to say, "I couldn't play for him." At one point, Bryant considered the Clippers because they offered a chance for money and winnings and now similar free agents might be taking the same tune as the Lakers star.
One free-agent-to-be is agreeing with Bryant. Prior to his playoff game against the Charlotte Bobcats, James spoke out heavily against Sterling. James called to Adam Silver to act fast on the matter and change something quickly.
"Obviously, if the reports are true, it's unacceptable in our league," James said, via ESPN.com. "It doesn't matter, white, black or Hispanic -- all across the races it's unacceptable. As the commissioner of our league they have to make a stand. They have to be very aggressive with it. I don't know what it will be, but we can't have that in our league. I believe in Adam [Silver] and I believe in the NBA and they have to do something very fast before this really gets out of hand. But like I said, there is no room for Donald Sterling in our league."
Many NBA experts believe with the right money moves, the Clippers could land a big name or two in free agency. Some have pegged either James or Carmelo Anthony as options for the team. However, this recent issue could harm the chances of any player wanting to sign with the Clippers. Even Rivers is doubting what his future looks like with the team if actions are not taken.
After the Clippers game against the Golden State Warriors, Rivers was asked if the team needed to do or say anything to make him want to continue working for the Clippers. The head coach simply said, "Don't know yet. I'm just going to leave it at that."
Chris Paul admits he is nervous about returning home for Game 5 after the issues that took place over the weekend. He simply hopes the fans can embrace the players, noting they would not be there without them.
"I would be lying if I said I wasn't nervous about what it is going to be like. Because our fans have been amazing all season long, and obviously I hope that it will be the same. You just never know. They've been amazing, and we wouldn't be where we are without them. But it's tough," Paul said, via ESPN.com.
