by Kadeem Simmonds

Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling has been hit with a $2.5 million fine and a lifetime ban from the NBA after his racist comments last week.

Sterling was caught on tape saying he didn’t want black people at his games and many, including Sterling, believed that the most he would get was a hefty fine.

But the league have shown a strong stance by kicking out the longest serving owner in the NBA.

League commissioner Adam Silver said: “The views expressed by Mr Sterling are deeply offensive and harmful. That they came from an NBA owner only heightens the damage and my personal outrage.

“Sentiments of this kind are contrary to the principles of inclusion and respect that form the foundation of our diverse, multi cultural and multi ethnic league.

“I am personally distraught that the views expressed by Mr Sterling came from within an institution that has historically taken such a leadership role in matters of race relations, and caused current and former players, coaches, fans and partners of the NBA to question their very association with the league.

“To them — and pioneers of the game, like Earl Lloyd, Chuck Cooper, Sweetwater Clifton, the great Bill Russell and particularly Magic Johnson — I apologise.”

The Golden State Warriors had threatened to boycot their game against the Clippers last night if a suitable punishment was not handed to Sterling but it seems that it wasn’t necessary, with Silver releasing his statement before the Clippers defeated the Warriors.

Prior to the ruling Sterling had said he would not be selling the team but he may not have a choice.

The NBA’s constitution requires three-quarters of the association’s 30 owners to approve the removal of one of their colleagues and it will be difficult to imagine that any team in the league wanted to keep him as an owner.

Boxers Floyd Mayweather Jnr and Oscar de la Hoya have reportedly shown interest in buying the NBA franchise as well Magic Johnson, with the team currently valued at a little over $500m.

“Commissioner Silver showed great leadership in banning LA Clippers owner Donald Sterling for life,” said NBA great Magic Johnson on Twitter.

“Current and former NBA players now know that in Commissioner Adam Silver we have a great leader leading our league.”

Miami Heat star man LeBron James said on the social networking site: “Commissioner Silver thank you for protecting our beautiful and powerful league!! Great leader!! #BiggerThanBasketball #StriveForGreatness.”