Clippers Hire Steve Ballmer’s Interim Replacement for One-Year Suspension

The Los Angeles Clippers have appointed John Gibson as their interim governor and CEO following the NBA's one-year executive suspension of team owner Steve Ballmer. Ballmer, along with president of business operations Gillian Zucker, received the suspension as part of the league's punishment for salary cap violations. The NBA also handed the team a $30 million fine and forfeited several draft picks. The decision by Ballmer to accept the one-year executive suspension put an end to further legal challenges.

Gibson, a longtime Clippers season ticket holder and former partner at DLA Piper, was nominated by Ballmer and approved by the NBA. As interim CEO and governor, Gibson will oversee all aspects of the franchise, including basketball and business operations. Given the current state of chaos within the organization, with several key executives sidelined, Gibson's primary responsibility will be to maintain stability and order while the team navigates these challenging times and awaits the resolution of their legal situation.