Steve Ballmer sends unexpected message to Clippers fans

Steve Ballmer has broken his silence after the NBA imposed a historic punishment on his Los Angeles Clippers.

The Clippers received a franchise-crippling punishment earlier this week after the league concluded its investigation into the team’s alleged circumvention of the NBA salary cap. LAC was docked five first-round picks and had to pay a $30 million fine, plus suspensions for Ballmer and two Clippers executives.

Ballmer took to social media Sunday to address the Clippers’ fan base, which had been in dire straits in recent weeks. Many expected Ballmer to combat the punishment and even possibly take matters to court. Instead, the 70-year-old revealed he was backing down.

“For my Los Angeles Clippers followers,” Ballmer’s message read.

“This has been a very difficult time for everybody associated with the Clippers, and for that, I have sincere regrets. I want to apologize to our fans, employees, and my fellow NBA team owners for the distraction and distress this matter has caused, for which I accept responsibility as principal owner.

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“The challenges ahead of us are significant, but so is our resolve. We will continue to build our team and invest in our community. The confidence of our fans is our priority. With our talented roster, outstanding staff and clear vision, I am certain that we will compete at the highest level and be an organization our fans can be proud of.”