He acted quickly , effectively and decisively in handing out the "Lifetime Ban"! He did what the players, fans, owners and perhaps most importantly , what the sponsors wanted. I am, under no stretch of the imagination saying that Sterling is not a racist. He most certainly is. He deserves what he got. There is no place for him in a "civilized society", let alone as an owner of a professional basketball team.
Having said that, was the punishment too harsh ? Will the ban and the vote forcing him to sell the franchise withstand legal challenge ? Is a dangerous precedent being set? Was the punishment appropriate for his racist words or did it take into consideration past "bad acts" of Sterling? Will Magic Johnson buy the team?
For now, Sterling is banished from the Clippers at least for the balance of the playoffs. That is what the NBA had to do to remove the "dark, Sterling cloud "(no pun intended) hanging over the playoffs. I think we all expect a spirited legal challenge by Sterling and his legal team. The fight is far from over. Has barely started in fact. We shall see how things develop .
Silver's actions have at least guaranteed a few nights of "peace of mind" for the NBA Family. Avoided potentially, irreparable damage. Time to get back to hoops. So, I'll see you at 10:30 tip tonight.. Gonna be a great one!!!!
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