Last Updated on June 16, 2026 by Mat Diekhake
The Los Angeles Clippers began as the Buffalo Braves in 1970 before relocating to San Diego in 1978 and Los Angeles in 1984. Throughout the franchise’s history, ownership has changed hands only a few times, with each owner playing a significant role in the team’s evolution. (Wikipedia)
Paul Snyder (1970–1976)
Paul Snyder was awarded the Buffalo Braves expansion franchise in 1970. As the team’s founding owner, he oversaw the club’s early years and its rise to playoff contention behind NBA MVP Bob McAdoo. Financial and arena-related challenges eventually led Snyder to sell his controlling interest. (Wikipedia)
John Y. Brown Jr. (1976–1978)
Former ABA owner John Y. Brown Jr. purchased the Braves and later arranged a unique franchise swap with Boston Celtics owner Irv Levin. The transaction allowed Levin to gain control of the Braves franchise, which he relocated to San Diego in 1978 and renamed the Clippers. (Wikipedia)
Irv Levin (1978–1981)
California businessman Irv Levin became owner following the franchise swap with the Celtics. Under Levin’s ownership, the team moved from Buffalo to San Diego and adopted the Clippers name. He sold the franchise in 1981 after three seasons in San Diego. (Wikipedia)
Donald Sterling (1981–2014)
Real estate developer Donald Sterling purchased the Clippers in 1981. He relocated the franchise to Los Angeles in 1984 and remained owner for more than three decades. Despite several successful teams, his tenure became controversial, culminating in a lifetime ban from the NBA in 2014 and a forced sale of the franchise. (Wikipedia)
Steve Ballmer (2014–Present)
Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer purchased the Clippers in 2014 for a then-record $2 billion. Under Ballmer’s ownership, the franchise has invested heavily in facilities, brand development, and roster construction, including the opening of the team’s new arena era and multiple deep playoff runs. (Encyclopedia Britannica)
Los Angeles Clippers Ownership Timeline
| Owner | Years |
|---|---|
| Paul Snyder | 1970–1976 |
| John Y. Brown Jr. | 1976–1978 |
| Irv Levin | 1978–1981 |
| Donald Sterling | 1981–2014 |
| Steve Ballmer | 2014–Present |
From founder Paul Snyder in Buffalo to current owner Steve Ballmer in Los Angeles, the Clippers have had five principal ownership eras across more than five decades of franchise history. (Wikipedia)