Clippers head coach dedicates Opening Night win to Steve Ballmer

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The Clippers kicked off the 2026-27 season with an Opening Night victory.

Head coach Tyronn Lue dedicated the Clippers’ 121-96 win over the Kings to owner Steve Ballmer, who is currently serving a one-year suspension for violating the NBA’s salary cap circumvention rules.

“That win was for Mr. Ballmer,” Lue said. “Just want to say thank you for everything. We’re still fighting for him.”

Ballmer isn’t allowed to participate in any league or team activities throughout the suspension, which includes all communication with the Clippers. Aside from Ballmer’s suspension, the team was also fined $30 million and stripped of five first-round picks.

Since the NBA handed out its punishment to the Clippers, the organization has attempted to rebuild trust with the fanbase. Their effort began at media day, where interim president of basketball operations Trent Redden issued an apology to fans.

Opening Night was another opportunity for the Clippers to reengage fans after a summer of scandal. The team offered free parking to those who arrived an hour before tip off at Intuit Dome as well as a jersey swap for fans who wanted to turn in an old Clippers jersey for a new one.

While Ballmer may not be with the Clippers for the 2026-27 campaign, the entire team echoed Lue’s sentiments.

“We were trying to protect home court,” Darius Garland said. “It’s the house he built. He was definitely here in spirit… We felt his energy for sure.”

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