In a move that shook the NBA, the LA Clippers traded for Doc Rivers to take on the role of head coach in 2013. This bold decision was fraught with tension from the start, culminating in a near-disastrous fallout between Rivers and the team’s then-owner, Donald Sterling. Hulu’s new series “Clipped,” which premiered this week, delves into the fraught relationship and controversial incidents that marked the end of Sterling’s tenure as owner.
The first episode of “Clipped” opens with a critical moment: a potential signing discussion between Sterling and Rivers. The Clippers were on the verge of signing JJ Redick, a free agent who was highly sought after for his shooting prowess. Initially, Sterling appeared to approve the signing. However, his approval was swiftly retracted upon discovering Redick’s race.
“He’s white, I didn’t know he was white,” Sterling bluntly stated to Rivers, sparking an intense argument.
Doc Rivers, known for his leadership and resilience, was quick to respond. “We renege on JJ now we’ll never get another free agent,” he warned, highlighting the potential damage to the team’s reputation.
Sterling’s response was both shocking and telling of his arrogance: “What’s your reputation? I am the one, everyone loves me.”
Rivers did not back down. “No they don’t,” he retorted, escalating the confrontation.
The argument reached its peak with Sterling’s outburst, “Excuse me? Who are you talking to you f**king brat? I’m your owner.”
In a dramatic moment that could have altered the course of the Clippers’ future, Rivers shot back, “You’re not my owner because I quit.” This standoff, however, did not result in Rivers’ immediate departure. Instead, JJ Redick joined the Clippers via a sign-and-trade with the Milwaukee Bucks, and Rivers continued as head coach.
Doc Rivers’ tenure with the Clippers turned out to be a period of consistent regular-season success but postseason frustration. Prior to joining the Clippers, Rivers had achieved an NBA championship with the Boston Celtics in 2008. The Clippers, featuring stars Chris Paul and Blake Griffin, hoped Rivers could replicate this success in Los Angeles.
Under Rivers’ leadership, the Clippers never won fewer than 51 games in his first four seasons, a testament to his coaching acumen. Despite this regular-season success, the Clippers consistently fell short in the playoffs. Over Rivers’ seven-season span, the team appeared in 59 postseason games, ending with a record of 27-32. Notably, the Clippers never advanced beyond the Western Conference semifinals, a significant underachievement given their regular-season prowess.
The climax of Rivers’ coaching stint with the Clippers came in 2020 during the NBA bubble. The team suffered a catastrophic collapse, blowing a 3-1 lead to the Denver Nuggets in the playoffs. This defeat marked the end of Rivers’ tenure with the team. His overall record with the Clippers stood at 356-208, reflecting his ability to maintain a strong regular-season performance despite postseason shortcomings.
Following his departure from the Clippers, Rivers briefly took the helm of the Philadelphia 76ers. His stint there was followed by a return to broadcasting, before eventually being hired as the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks.
Hulu’s “Clipped” serves as a poignant reminder of the complex dynamics between Doc Rivers and Donald Sterling. Sterling’s racially charged comments and volatile management style cast a shadow over the franchise. Rivers’ determination and resilience in the face of such adversity underscore his reputation as a respected and formidable coach in the NBA.
“Clipped” offers an unflinching look at the final years of Donald Sterling’s ownership, painting a vivid picture of his controversial and often destructive leadership. The series highlights the stark contrast between Sterling’s outdated, prejudiced worldview and Rivers’ modern, inclusive approach to team management. This portrayal not only serves as a dramatic retelling of past events but also provides a critical reflection on the broader issues of racism and leadership within sports organizations.
Doc Rivers emerges as a central figure of integrity and fortitude. Despite the pressures and provocations from Sterling, Rivers maintained his focus on the team’s success and player morale. His decision to stay on as head coach, even after such a heated confrontation, speaks volumes about his commitment to his role and his players.
The series is a timely reminder of the importance of ethical leadership and the ongoing challenges faced in combatting racism in professional sports. It also serves as a testament to Doc Rivers’ enduring legacy as a coach who navigated one of the most tumultuous periods in the Clippers’ history with unwavering resolve.
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