Photos:: Donald Sterling through the years

Donald Sterling speaks to reporters during a 1981 news conference to announce he had purchased the San Diego Clippers. Sterling purchased the franchise for $13.5 million and moved the team to Los Angeles in 1984.  (Lenny Ignelzi / Associated Press)

Donald Sterling smiles during a 1981 news conference introducing him as the new owner of the San Diego Clippers. Sterling bought the team for $13.5 million and moved the franchise to Los Angeles in 1984.  (John McDonough / Los Angeles Times)

Clippers owner Donald Sterling attends a game at the Los Angeles Sports Arena in 1997.  (Anacleto Rapping / Los Angeles Times)

Donald Sterling attends the “California Gold Star Awards” dinner gala and auction at the Disneyland Hotel in April 2003.  (Robert Mora / Getty Images)

Clippers owner Donald Sterling waves while sitting next his wife, Shelly, during a playoff game between the Clippers and Phoenix Suns at Staples Center in May 2006.  (Lori Shepler / Los Angeles Times)

Clippers owner Donald Sterling looks on during a game against the Denver Nuggets at Staples Center in 2006.  (David Zalubowski / Associated Press)

Clippers owner Donald Sterling greets Iraq War veteran Greg Valentini during halftime of a game between the Clippers and Washington Wizards in March 2011.  (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Clippers owners Donald Sterling and Shelly Sterling attend a charity event in Malibu in August 2009.  (Michael Bezjian / WireImage)

Clippers owner Donald Sterling smiles while sitting courtside during a game against the San Antonio Spurs in 2009 at Staples Center.  (Danny Moloshok / Associated Press)

Clippers owner Donald Sterling sits next to friend V. Stiviano during a preseason game between the Clippers and Lakers in December 2010.  (Danny Moloshok / Associated Press)

Clippers owner Donald Sterling watches his team play during an October 2010 game at Staples Center.  (Mark J. Terrill / Associated Press)

Clippers owners Shelly and Donald Sterling attend a game against the Detroit Pistons in November 2010.  (Mark J. Terrill / Associated Press)