John Gibson Named Clippers Interim Governor, CEO

The NBA has approved Los Angeles-based lawyer John Gibson as the interim governor and CEO of the Los Angeles Clippers. The appointment follows the suspension of majority owner Steve Ballmer for one year due to salary cap circumvention.

Ballmer was suspended from all team activities after an NBA investigation found the Clippers circumvented the salary cap to pay former star forward Kawhi Leonard. The investigation, led by the law firm Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, identified "no-show" endorsement deals as the method used.

Gibson's Immediate Role

Gibson's tenure began immediately upon league approval. He will oversee the team's business and basketball operations. He will also represent the Clippers at NBA Board of Governors meetings.

"I am honored to take on this responsibility and grateful for the opportunity to serve an organization I have supported many years," Gibson said in a statement. A longtime Clippers season ticket holder, he added his focus would be on steady leadership and supporting the team's people.

Background and Investigation Details

Gibson brings over 35 years of legal experience to the role. He was previously a nationally recognized trial lawyer and litigation partner at DLA Piper in Los Angeles.

His appointment is notable because Ballmer did not name Dennis Wong as interim governor. Wong is the team's lone minority owner and alternate governor. Although not punished by the league, Wong reportedly played a key role in funneling money to Leonard in December 2022. This involved an investment in Aspiration, a company already facing lawsuits and whose auditor had resigned.

Aspiration was central to the salary cap circumvention scandal first reported last September. The Clippers remain under investigation by the Department of Justice for their dealings with Leonard.

Organizational Outlook

In his statement, Gibson highlighted the team's assets. He pointed to talented players, coaches, and staff, the new Intuit Dome, and passionate fans. His stated goal is to help the organization continue moving forward during this transitional period.

The Clippers confirmed the appointment in a press release, citing Gibson's legal background and longtime support of the franchise. The team now operates under interim leadership for the next year while Ballmer serves his suspension.