Bob Iger told JJ Redick podcast he was a Clippers fan

Bob Iger, the longtime Disney CEO, is set to become a co-owner of the Los Angeles Lakers for a record $12.5 billion price. The news of this acquisition was reported by ESPN on Tuesday. The deal raises several questions, given the federal investigation surrounding the current owner, Mark Walter, as well as Kushner’s ties to the White House. With Iger’s extensive experience in running successful businesses, including Disney, it remains to be seen if his skills will translate well to the world of sports.

In a surprising twist, Iger revealed during a podcast interview with former Lakers head coach JJ Redick that he is a lifelong fan of the Los Angeles Clippers. Redick hosted the conversation on his now-viral "Old Man and the Three" podcast in January 2021. The former ESPN analyst and current Lakers head coach introduced Iger as a fan of the Clippers, explaining that he developed a connection with Iger while playing for the franchise.

Iger explained that growing up in New York, he was a fan of the Knicks, but as a Lakers fan, he couldn't root for them due to their rivalry with his childhood team. He found it easier to support the Clippers because their seats were cheaper, and their teams were entertaining to watch during that time. Although the Clippers have experienced some success in the early 2000s with players like Elton Brand, Lamar Odom, Darius Miles, and Quentin Richardson, the team struggled to develop a dedicated fanbase compared to the Lakers and Knicks.