NBA Commissioner Addresses Clippers Ownership, All-Star Changes, and Ongoing Investigations
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver addressed several key league topics, emphasizing the NBA’s commitment to self-reliant examination regarding the Los Angeles Clippers and owner Steve Ballmer, while also outlining plans for the All-Star Game and providing updates on other league initiatives.
Regarding the allegations surrounding the Clippers, Silver stated the league is allowing due process to “run its course.” He indicated that the league’s owners,while expressing some reservations,understand the necessity of an independent investigation led by the law firm Wachtell,Lipton,Rosen & Katz.
“I think people recognize that that’s what you have a league office for,” Silver explained. “That’s what you have a commissioner for – someone who is independent of the teams.” He clarified his dual role, stating he works for the 30 team governors but also has a separate obligation to protect the league’s brand and integrity. Silver confirmed limited discussions with the Board of Governors, primarily focused on communicating the engagement of Wachtell and a collective decision to withhold judgment until the investigation concludes.
beyond the Clippers matter, silver detailed upcoming changes to the NBA All-Star game format. The league aims to implement a new three-team structure by the start of the regular season, featuring 16 American players and eight international players at the February All-Star Game in Los Angeles. Silver stressed the importance of player engagement with the event, emphasizing its historical meaning and excitement within the league, especially for younger players.
Discussions regarding a potential NBA-run league in Europe are ongoing, involving multiple departments within the league office.Silver and Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum recently traveled to Europe to meet with stakeholders,and conversations with the EuroLeague continue following a prior meeting with FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis. Silver refuted the notion that domestic expansion is prioritized over European league progress,stating he views them as “completely different entities.” He acknowledged the difficulty in assessing the long-term value and potential pricing of expansion franchises, given recent increases in franchise valuations.
Silver addressed the ongoing investigation into free agent Malik Beasley regarding alleged gambling violations. He declined to comment on any limitations to Beasley’s availability, stating the NBA will respond to findings from both the league’s investigation and a concurrent federal investigation. “The investigation is ongoing,” Silver stated, “we will address whatever is presented to us in his case.”
