The Rise And Fall Of Donald Sterling And Jerry Buss In LA Sports History

Dr. Keegan Satterfield III 17 Jun 2025

Who were Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss, and what was their significance in the world of basketball?

Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss were two of the most influential figures in the history of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Sterling was the owner of the Los Angeles Clippers from 1981 to 2014, while Buss owned the Los Angeles Lakers from 1979 to 2013. Both men were known for their success in their respective roles, and they played a major role in shaping the NBA into the global phenomenon that it is today.

Sterling was a controversial figure throughout his ownership of the Clippers. He was accused of racism and sexism on several occasions, and he was eventually forced to sell the team in 2014 after the NBA banned him for life. Buss, on the other hand, was a beloved figure in Los Angeles. He was known for his charisma and his commitment to winning, and he helped the Lakers win 10 NBA championships during his tenure as owner.

Despite their contrasting personalities, Sterling and Buss shared a common goal: to win championships. Both men were willing to spend money and make bold moves in order to achieve success. Sterling's Clippers never won an NBA championship, but they did make the playoffs in 12 of his 33 seasons as owner. Buss's Lakers were one of the most successful teams in NBA history, winning 16 championships in the 34 years that he owned the team.

Sterling and Buss were both larger-than-life figures who left a lasting legacy on the NBA. Sterling's legacy is a mixed one, but there is no doubt that he was a successful owner. Buss's legacy is one of unparalleled success. He was the owner of one of the most successful teams in NBA history, and he helped to make the Lakers one of the most popular teams in the world.

Name	Years of Ownership	NBA Championships
Donald Sterling	1981-2014	0
Jerry Buss	1979-2013	10

The legacies of Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss will continue to be debated for years to come. However, there is no doubt that both men were influential figures in the history of the NBA. They were both successful owners who helped to shape the league into what it is today.

Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss

Ownership: Sterling and Buss were both longtime owners of their respective teams. Sterling owned the Clippers for 33 years, while Buss owned the Lakers for 34 years.
Success: Both Sterling and Buss were successful owners. Sterling's Clippers made the playoffs 12 times during his ownership, while Buss's Lakers won 10 NBA championships.
Controversy: Sterling was a controversial figure throughout his ownership of the Clippers. He was accused of racism and sexism on several occasions, and he was eventually forced to sell the team in 2014 after the NBA banned him for life.
Legacy: Sterling's legacy is a mixed one, but there is no doubt that he was a successful owner. Buss's legacy is one of unparalleled success. He was the owner of one of the most successful teams in NBA history, and he helped to make the Lakers one of the most popular teams in the world.
Los Angeles: Sterling and Buss were both instrumental in the development of basketball in Los Angeles. Sterling's Clippers played in San Diego for their first six seasons, but they moved to Los Angeles in 1984. Buss's Lakers have always been based in Los Angeles, and they are one of the most popular teams in the city.
NBA: Sterling and Buss both had a significant impact on the NBA. Sterling was a member of the NBA's Board of Governors for many years, and he was a vocal critic of the league's policies. Buss was a close friend of NBA Commissioner David Stern, and he was a key figure in the league's expansion into new markets.
Basketball: Sterling and Buss were both passionate about basketball. Sterling was a former college basketball player, and he loved to watch the game. Buss was a lifelong Lakers fan, and he was committed to winning championships.

Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss were two of the most important figures in the history of the NBA. They were both successful owners who helped to shape the league into what it is today. Sterling's legacy is a mixed one, but there is no doubt that he was a successful owner. Buss's legacy is one of unparalleled success. He was the owner of one of the most successful teams in NBA history, and he helped to make the Lakers one of the most popular teams in the world.

1. Ownership

The ownership of Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss was a major factor in the success of their respective teams. Sterling's long tenure with the Clippers provided stability and continuity, while Buss's ownership of the Lakers was marked by a commitment to winning and a willingness to spend money.

Sterling's ownership of the Clippers was not without its challenges. He was a controversial figure who was accused of racism and sexism on several occasions. However, he was also a shrewd businessman who was able to keep the Clippers afloat during some difficult financial times.

Buss's ownership of the Lakers was a period of unprecedented success. He assembled a team of superstar players and won 10 NBA championships. Buss was also a visionary who helped to popularize the NBA and make it a global phenomenon.

The ownership of Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss was a major factor in the success of the Los Angeles Clippers and the Los Angeles Lakers. Their long tenures and commitment to winning helped to make both teams two of the most successful in the NBA.

The ownership of Sterling and Buss also had a significant impact on the NBA as a whole. Sterling was a member of the NBA's Board of Governors for many years, and he was a vocal critic of the league's policies. Buss was a close friend of NBA Commissioner David Stern, and he was a key figure in the league's expansion into new markets.

The ownership of Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss was a major factor in the success of the NBA. Their long tenures, commitment to winning, and willingness to innovate helped to make the NBA the global phenomenon that it is today.

2. Success

The success of Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss as owners was due to a combination of factors, including their long tenures with their respective teams, their commitment to winning, and their willingness to spend money.

Long Tenures
Sterling owned the Clippers for 33 years, while Buss owned the Lakers for 34 years. This stability and continuity allowed both men to build successful franchises.
Commitment to Winning
Both Sterling and Buss were committed to winning championships. They were willing to spend money on players and coaches, and they created a winning culture within their organizations.
Willingness to Spend Money
Sterling and Buss were both willing to spend money to improve their teams. They signed big-name free agents and made trades to acquire talented players.
Player Development
Both Sterling and Buss understood the importance of player development. They invested in their young players and created a system that allowed them to reach their full potential.

The success of Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss as owners is a testament to their hard work and dedication. They were both passionate about basketball and committed to winning. Their success helped to make the NBA the global phenomenon that it is today.

3. Controversy

Donald Sterling's controversial ownership of the Clippers stands in stark contrast to Jerry Buss's beloved ownership of the Lakers. Sterling's tenure was marked by accusations of racism and sexism, while Buss was known for his charisma and commitment to winning. Ultimately, Sterling was forced to sell the Clippers after the NBA banned him for life, while Buss remained the Lakers' owner until his death in 2013.

Racism and Sexism
Sterling was accused of racism and sexism on several occasions. In 2009, he was sued by his former mistress for allegedly making racist remarks. In 2014, he was banned from the NBA for life after he was recorded making racist and sexist comments.
The NBA's Response
The NBA responded to Sterling's racist comments by banning him from the league for life. This was a significant punishment, and it showed that the NBA was serious about addressing racism and sexism in the league.
Sterling's Legacy
Sterling's legacy is a mixed one. He was a successful owner who helped to bring the Clippers to Los Angeles. However, his racist and sexist comments will always overshadow his accomplishments.
Buss's Legacy
Buss's legacy is one of unparalleled success. He was the owner of one of the most successful teams in NBA history, and he helped to make the Lakers one of the most popular teams in the world. He was also a beloved figure in Los Angeles.

The controversy surrounding Donald Sterling's ownership of the Clippers is a reminder that racism and sexism are still problems in our society. It is also a reminder that the NBA is committed to addressing these issues. Jerry Buss's legacy is a reminder that it is possible to be a successful owner and a good person. He was a beloved figure in Los Angeles, and he will be remembered for his charisma and commitment to winning.

4. Legacy

The legacies of Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss are two sides of the same coin. Sterling's legacy is a reminder that even successful people can make mistakes, while Buss's legacy is a reminder that it is possible to achieve great things through hard work and dedication.

Success on the Court
Both Sterling and Buss were successful owners on the court. Sterling's Clippers made the playoffs 12 times during his ownership, while Buss's Lakers won 10 NBA championships. This success was due in part to both men's willingness to spend money on players and coaches, as well as their ability to create a winning culture within their organizations.
Controversy off the Court
Sterling's legacy is tarnished by his controversial comments and actions off the court. He was accused of racism and sexism on several occasions, and he was eventually forced to sell the Clippers after the NBA banned him for life. Buss, on the other hand, was a beloved figure in Los Angeles. He was known for his charisma and commitment to winning, and he was never involved in any major scandals.
The Importance of Legacy
The legacies of Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss are a reminder that our actions have consequences. Sterling's legacy will always be overshadowed by his racist comments, while Buss's legacy will be remembered for his success on and off the court. It is important to remember that our legacy is something that we build over time, and it is something that we should be proud of.

The legacies of Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss are two of the most contrasting in NBA history. Sterling's legacy is a cautionary tale about the dangers of racism and sexism, while Buss's legacy is an inspiration to all who dream of achieving great things. Both men left a lasting mark on the NBA, and their legacies will continue to be debated for years to come.

5. Los Angeles

Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss were two of the most influential figures in the history of basketball in Los Angeles. Sterling owned the Clippers from 1981 to 2014, while Buss owned the Lakers from 1979 to 2013. Both men were committed to bringing success to their teams and to growing the game of basketball in Los Angeles.

The Move to Los Angeles
Sterling's decision to move the Clippers to Los Angeles in 1984 was a major moment in the development of basketball in the city. The Clippers had played their first six seasons in San Diego, but they struggled to gain a following in that market. The move to Los Angeles gave the Clippers a chance to tap into a much larger fan base, and it helped to make the team a more viable franchise.
The Lakers' Dynasty
Buss's Lakers were one of the most dominant teams in NBA history. They won 10 NBA championships during his ownership, and they were led by some of the greatest players in the game, including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, and Kobe Bryant. The Lakers' success helped to make basketball the most popular sport in Los Angeles, and it also helped to raise the profile of the NBA around the world.
The Impact on the City
The success of the Clippers and Lakers has had a major impact on the city of Los Angeles. Basketball is now the most popular sport in the city, and the Clippers and Lakers are two of the most popular teams in the NBA. The teams' success has also helped to boost the local economy and to create a sense of community in Los Angeles.

The contributions of Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss to the development of basketball in Los Angeles cannot be overstated. Their teams have brought joy to millions of fans, and they have helped to make Los Angeles one of the most basketball-crazy cities in the world.

6. NBA

Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss were two of the most influential figures in the history of the NBA. Sterling owned the Los Angeles Clippers from 1981 to 2014, while Buss owned the Los Angeles Lakers from 1979 to 2013. Both men were passionate about basketball and committed to the success of the NBA.

Sterling was a controversial figure throughout his ownership of the Clippers. He was a vocal critic of the NBA's policies, and he was often at odds with Commissioner David Stern. However, Sterling was also a shrewd businessman who helped to keep the Clippers afloat during some difficult financial times.

Buss, on the other hand, was a beloved figure in the NBA. He was a close friend of Commissioner Stern, and he was instrumental in the league's expansion into new markets. Buss was also a visionary who helped to popularize the NBA and make it a global phenomenon.

The impact of Sterling and Buss on the NBA is undeniable. Sterling was a vocal critic who helped to keep the league honest, while Buss was a visionary who helped to grow the game. Both men were passionate about basketball, and their contributions to the NBA will never be forgotten.

The connection between "NBA: Sterling and Buss both had a significant impact on the NBA. Sterling was a member of the NBA's Board of Governors for many years, and he was a vocal critic of the league's policies. Buss was a close friend of NBA Commissioner David Stern, and he was a key figure in the league's expansion into new markets." and "donald sterling jerry buss" is that Sterling and Buss were two of the most influential figures in the history of the NBA. Their impact on the league was significant, and their contributions will never be forgotten.

7. Basketball

Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss's passion for basketball was a major factor in their success as NBA owners. Sterling's love of the game led him to purchase the Clippers in 1981, and he remained the team's owner until he was forced to sell in 2014. Buss's passion for the Lakers led him to purchase the team in 1979, and he remained the team's owner until his death in 2013.

Sterling's Passion for Basketball
Sterling's passion for basketball began at an early age. He played basketball in high school and college, and he continued to play the game recreationally throughout his life. Sterling's love of the game was evident in his ownership of the Clippers. He was always willing to spend money on players and coaches, and he was always looking for ways to improve the team.
Buss's Passion for the Lakers
Buss's passion for the Lakers began when he was a child. He grew up in Los Angeles, and he was a lifelong Lakers fan. Buss's passion for the Lakers was evident in his ownership of the team. He was always willing to spend money on players and coaches, and he was always looking for ways to improve the team.
The Impact of Sterling and Buss's Passion
Sterling and Buss's passion for basketball had a major impact on the NBA. Sterling's ownership of the Clippers helped to bring the NBA to Los Angeles, and his passion for the game helped to make the Clippers a competitive team. Buss's ownership of the Lakers helped to make the team one of the most successful in NBA history, and his passion for the game helped to make the Lakers one of the most popular teams in the world.

Sterling and Buss's passion for basketball was a driving force in their success as NBA owners. Their love of the game helped to make the NBA a better league, and it helped to bring joy to millions of fans around the world.

FAQs about Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss

Here are some frequently asked questions about Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss, two of the most influential figures in NBA history.

Question 1: Who were Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss?

Answer: Donald Sterling was the owner of the Los Angeles Clippers from 1981 to 2014. Jerry Buss was the owner of the Los Angeles Lakers from 1979 to 2013. Both men were known for their success in their respective roles, and they played a major role in shaping the NBA into the global phenomenon that it is today.

Question 2: What was Donald Sterling's legacy?

Answer: Sterling's legacy is a mixed one. He was a successful owner who helped to bring the Clippers to Los Angeles. However, his racist and sexist comments will always overshadow his accomplishments.

Question 3: What was Jerry Buss's legacy?

Answer: Buss's legacy is one of unparalleled success. He was the owner of one of the most successful teams in NBA history, and he helped to make the Lakers one of the most popular teams in the world. He was also a beloved figure in Los Angeles.

Question 4: How did Sterling and Buss impact the NBA?

Answer: Sterling and Buss both had a significant impact on the NBA. Sterling was a vocal critic of the league's policies, while Buss was a key figure in the league's expansion into new markets. Both men were passionate about basketball, and their contributions to the NBA will never be forgotten.

Question 5: What can we learn from Sterling and Buss?

Answer: The legacies of Sterling and Buss offer valuable lessons about success, controversy, and the importance of passion. Sterling's legacy reminds us that even successful people can make mistakes, while Buss's legacy reminds us that it is possible to achieve great things through hard work and dedication. Both men were passionate about basketball, and their contributions to the NBA will continue to inspire fans for years to come.

Summary: Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss were two of the most influential figures in NBA history. Their legacies are complex and contrasting, but both men made significant contributions to the league. We can learn from their successes and their mistakes, and we can be inspired by their passion for basketball.

Transition to the next article section: Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss were two of the most successful owners in NBA history. Their teams, the Los Angeles Clippers and the Los Angeles Lakers, are two of the most popular teams in the league. In the next section, we will take a closer look at the history of these two teams and their impact on the NBA.

Conclusion

Sterling's legacy is a mixed one. He was a successful owner who helped to bring the Clippers to Los Angeles. However, his racist and sexist comments will always overshadow his accomplishments. Buss's legacy, on the other hand, is one of unparalleled success. He was the owner of one of the most successful teams in NBA history, and he helped to make the Lakers one of the most popular teams in the world.

The legacies of Sterling and Buss offer valuable lessons about success, controversy, and the importance of passion. Sterling's legacy reminds us that even successful people can make mistakes, while Buss's legacy reminds us that it is possible to achieve great things through hard work and dedication. Both men were passionate about basketball, and their contributions to the NBA will continue to inspire fans for years to come.

The story of Donald Sterling and Jerry Buss is a reminder that the NBA is a league of contrasts. There are owners who are beloved by their fans, and there are owners who are reviled. There are teams that are successful on the court, and there are teams that struggle to win. But through it all, the NBA remains one of the most popular sports leagues in the world.

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