Judge Rules Against Donald Sterling, Clippers Sale Could Move Forward

Soon to be former Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling suffered a serious setback in his attempt to block the sale of the team to former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. According to an AP report, Superior Court Judge Michael Levanas side with Sterling’s estranged wife Shelly in court.

As has been the norm throughout the proceedings, Sterling was not on hand when the ruling was read. Earlier this month the trial was temporarily delayed because he had not bothered to show up to testify.

Mrs. Sterling reportedly burst into tears when the announcement was made. Her lawyer Pierce O’Donnel said it was “a great day for the family trust, the NBA and the entire NBA family.” She added, “I can’t believe it’s over. I feel good.”

Mrs. Sterling’s optimism aside, it doesn’t seem that Mr. Sterling has any plans to back down. His attorney Bobby Samini reacted stoically to the ruling, but vowed to they would continue the fight on other fronts. Sterling has filed other lawsuits, including an antitrust suit against his wife and the NBA, that are currently pending.

The judge ruled that Mrs. Sterling acted in good faith and negotiated a very good deal for the sale of the Clippers. It was determined that she had the authority and was right to remove her husband as a trustee, based on the medical evidence that was introduced about Sterling’s diminished mental capacity.

NBA spokesman Mike Bass issued a statement that said the league was very pleased by the ruling and that they look forward to closing the deal as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, this doesn’t mean that a sale is imminent. Under the ruling he cannot delay the sale from going forward as he appeals the case, but Sterling has the money, the mind and the legal manpower to keep this up as long as his health allows him.

At this point, Sterling looks ready to fight this fight straight to his grave.