NBA committee meets again, discusses Sterlings’ media appearances

The NBA’s advisory/finance committee convened again Tuesday on a conference call and discussed a variety of topics, including the recent media appearances by Donald and Shelly Sterling.

The committee, made up of 10 NBA owners, also received updates on the hiring of Clippers interim CEO Dick Parsons and reviewed the status of the charge for termination of the Clippers’ ownership, according to a statement released by the NBA.

The committee initially expressed optimism it would move “expeditiously” to force Donald Sterling to sell the Clippers, but there had not yet been movement for a vote of all 30 NBA owners. A three-fourths majority vote would be required to force a sale of the team.

The NBA and the advisory/finance committee are acting with an eye on the legal process, making sure to account for every small move in case Sterling files a lawsuit to challenge the sale of his team if a vote indeed forces it.

The advisory/finance committee will reconvene next week for a fourth time.

Donald Sterling was banned for life two weeks ago by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver after the release of an audio recording on which Sterling is heard making racially insensitive remarks. He went on CNN on Monday and blasted Magic Johnson, saying the Lakers legend should not be a role model for children and had not contributed to minority communities.

Johnson has charitably donated “tens of millions” to minority causes through his foundation and other efforts, according to his longtime agent, Lon Rosen.

Shelly Sterling also did a TV interview, with ABC, and expressed her desire to maintain control of the Clippers. She is a co-owner of the team, purchased by Donald Sterling in 1981.