Clippers head coach dedicates Opening Night win to Steve Ballmer

Los Angeles Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue dedicated the team's 121-96 Opening Night victory over the Sacramento Kings to owner Steve Ballmer. Ballmer is currently serving a one-year suspension for violating the NBA's salary cap circumvention rules. Lue stated that the team was still fighting for Ballmer, while guard Darius Garland noted that the owner was with them in spirit at Intuit Dome.

Under the league's penalties, Ballmer is prohibited from participating in team activities or communicating with the organization. The Clippers were also fined $30 million and stripped of five first-round draft picks. To rebuild fan trust following the scandal, the franchise offered perks including free parking and a jersey swap during the home opener.