THE STORY
In April 2014, Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling was recorded making racist remarks to his mistress, V. Stiviano. The NBA investigated the incident, leading to a lifetime ban and a $2.5 million fine for Sterling. Amid public outcry and sponsor withdrawals, Sterling was pressured to sell the team, culminating in the sale to Steve Ballmer in August 2014.
TEAMS / PEOPLE:
Donald Sterling, Los Angeles Clippers
WHY IT MATTERS
The scandal prompted significant changes in NBA ownership and highlighted issues of racism within professional sports.