LA Clippers: Profile, achievements, best players and matches
Check out the history of the LA Clippers, their achievements, legendary players, thrilling matches, and dedicated fanbase.
Based in Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Clippers are a professional basketball team in the United States. The Clippers are a member of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference and play in the National Basketball Association (NBA). The Los Angeles Clippers, the Los Angeles Sparks of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), and the Los Angeles Kings of the National Hockey League (NHL) all share Crypto.com Arena, the home arena of the NBA team Los Angeles Lakers. By 2024, the Clippers intend to relocate to the Intuit Dome in adjacent Inglewood, where they currently own an arena.
As an expansion team, the team was first established in 1970 as the Buffalo Braves. During their eight seasons in Buffalo, the Braves, led by Hall of Famer Bob McAdoo, made it to the NBA playoffs three times. Their 1978 transfer from Buffalo to San Diego, California, and subsequent rebranding as the San Diego Clippers—a reference to the sailing ships that are iconic with San Diego Bay—were caused by disputes with the Canisius Golden Griffins regarding the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium and the selling of the franchise. During their six years in San Diego, the team had little on the court and did not make it to the playoffs.
Owner Donald Sterling controversially moved the team to Los Angeles in 1984 without the NBA’s consent. The NBA pursued a lawsuit to compel the team to relocate to San Diego for over three years, but ultimately dropped the case in exchange for Sterling having to pay a fine. The Clippers only made it to the postseason four times and won one playoff round in their first 27 seasons in Los Angeles. They were regularly compared negatively to the historically successful Lakers and were seen as serial losers in American professional sports.
The 2010s saw the Clippers become more well-known and establish themselves as a regular postseason challenger. With the help of the “Lob City” trio, which included Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, and DeAndre Jordan, the team made it to the postseason six times in a row, from 2012 to 2017. They also won two straight division titles in 2013 and 2014, which were firsts for the team. The Clippers struggled in the postseason despite their success, losing in the conference semifinals time and time again. They made it to the conference finals for the first time in 2021. They remain the oldest professional sports team in North America that has never participated in a championship game.
Team Overview
– Founded: 1970
– Location: Los Angeles, California
– Team colours- Royal Blue, Red, Black, Silver, White
– Head coach: Tyronn Lue
– Owner: Steve Ballmer
Achievements
The LA Clippers have a storied history filled with remarkable accomplishments:
- Western Conference Titles: They clinched the Western Conference title in the 2020-21 season, showcasing their rise to prominence.
- Division Titles: The Clippers have consistently secured division titles, demonstrating their competitiveness.
- Presidents’ Trophies: They have excelled during the regular season, earning recognition through Presidents’ Trophies.
Best Players
The Clippers have been graced by some of the most exceptional talents in NBA history:
- Kawhi Leonard: A two-time NBA Finals MVP, Leonard’s defensive prowess and clutch performances have been pivotal to the Clippers’ success.
- Chris Paul: Paul’s leadership and playmaking skills earned him recognition as one of the best point guards in the league.
- Blake Griffin: Known for his high-flying dunks and all-around game, Griffin was a fan favourite during his time with the Clippers.
Best Matches
The LA Clippers have been part of several thrilling contests:
- 2021 Western Conference Semifinals, Game 6: The Clippers’ historic comeback from a 25-point deficit against the Dallas Mavericks in Game 6 showcased their resilience.
- 2015 Playoff Series vs. San Antonio Spurs: The Clippers’ dramatic series win against the defending champion Spurs in the first round remains a memorable moment in franchise history.
- 2013 Playoff Series vs. Memphis Grizzlies: The epic seven-game series against the Grizzlies, featuring a game-winning shot by Chris Paul, is etched in Clippers’ lore.
Fanbase
The LA Clippers boast a dedicated and passionate fanbase. Known as “Clipper Nation,” these fans fill the Staples Center with energy and unwavering support.
Legacy
The Clippers’ legacy is one of perseverance and the pursuit of excellence. While an NBA championship has eluded them, their commitment to success, the presence of legendary players, and the unwavering support of their fans ensure that the legacy of the LA Clippers will continue to shine brightly in the world of basketball.