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Los Angeles Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue dedicated his team’s 121-96 season-opening victory over the Sacramento Kings to owner Steve Ballmer, who is serving a one-year suspension from league and team activities.
The Clippers won their first game of the 2026-27 NBA season on Wednesday night at Intuit Dome, with Lue emphasizing that the organization remains committed to Ballmer despite his absence from his usual courtside seat.
“First off, that win was from Mr. Ballmer. Just want to say thank you for everything, and we’re still fighting for him,” Lue said after the game.
The coach also praised the fans for creating an energetic atmosphere, crediting Ballmer’s influence on the building and the support the team received throughout the night.
“The fans were electric, and that’s what he brings every single night, kicking and screaming,” Lue said. “I thought the fans did a hell of a job just coming out supporting, and we need that. Our team needs that no matter the circumstances.”
Lue acknowledged that it felt unusual to look toward the sideline and not see Ballmer reacting to the action. He described the owner as one of the best people he knows and highlighted his impact on the organization.
“It was odd, but like I said, we keep him in our hearts,” Lue said. “He provided a great living for everyone in this arena and, you know, one of the best men that I know. So we definitely want to dedicate this one to him tonight.”
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The NBA suspended Ballmer for one year from league and team activities, fined the Clippers $30 million and stripped the franchise of five consecutive draft picks from 2029 through 2033.
On the court, the Clippers delivered a strong opening performance, never trailing and scoring 41 points in the first quarter. After Sacramento narrowed the gap before halftime, Los Angeles outscored the Kings 32-16 in the third quarter to establish a 93-70 lead.
Darius Garland led the Clippers with 30 points and four assists, while Brook Lopez contributed 17 points and 11 rebounds off the bench. Los Angeles finished with 29 assists and shot 52% from the field.
Lue praised his team’s ball movement, although he said the Clippers needed to maintain their focus after building a sizable lead.
“I thought we got off to a good start moving the basketball, playing the right way. Then we got stagnant in that second quarter,” Lue said. “The second half started, I thought we did a better job of just moving the basketball, moving bodies, making the right play for one another.”
He added that the team must avoid becoming complacent when ahead.
“When you get up 18, 20 points, not playing cute, like we have no margin for error,” Lue said. “We got to make sure we’re playing through the game.”
The Clippers visit the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday.
