The Los Angeles Clippers are a professional basketball team based in Los Angeles, California. They compete in the Pacific Division of the NBA’s Western Conference.
Known for their resilience and exciting style of play, the Clippers have become one of the league’s most competitive and modern franchises.
Founded in 1970, the franchise began as the Buffalo Braves before relocating to San Diego and then to Los Angeles in 1984. The team’s red, blue, and white colors reflect power, pride, and unity.
Over time, the Clippers have built a strong reputation for grit, teamwork, and innovation, establishing their own identity in a city known for basketball excellence.
Where Do the Clippers Play?
The Los Angeles Clippers play their home games at the Intuit Dome, a world-class arena located in Inglewood, California.
Officially opening for the 2024-25 NBA season, the Intuit Dome marks a transformative moment in franchise history as the Clippers move into their first arena built exclusively for them.
Designed with fans in mind, the Intuit Dome features advanced technology, eco-friendly design, and unmatched sightlines from every seat. Its most striking feature, “The Wall” is a steep single-tier section designed to maximize energy and crowd noise, creating one of the NBA’s most intense home-court advantages.
Team owner Steve Ballmer envisioned the Intuit Dome as a venue that redefines the basketball experience. Moreover, the arena includes the world’s first 360-degree Halo Board, modern amenities, and spaces that promote community connection.
More than just a stadium, the Intuit Dome represents the Clippers’ independence, innovation, and long-term commitment to their fans and city.
History of the Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers’ journey began in 1970 as the Buffalo Braves, an NBA expansion team. During their early years, star center Bob McAdoo led the team to playoff appearances and won the 1975 NBA MVP Award.
In 1978, the franchise relocated to San Diego and became the San Diego Clippers, named after the fast sailing ships that passed through the harbor. Despite flashes of talent from players like World B. Free and Bill Walton, the team struggled to gain traction.
The move to Los Angeles in 1984 started a new chapter. For years, the Clippers faced challenges but remained committed to building a strong culture. The 1990s and 2000s saw steady improvement, highlighted by standout players such as Elton Brand and Corey Maggette.
A major breakthrough came in the 2010s during the “Lob City” era, featuring Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, and DeAndre Jordan. Their fast-paced, high-flying style made the Clippers one of the NBA’s most exciting teams.
In 2019, the franchise added Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, ushering in a new championship-focused era. The Clippers reached their first Western Conference Finals in 2021, a landmark moment that showcased their evolution into a consistent contender.
Interesting Facts & Team Milestones
- The Clippers were originally the Buffalo Braves, one of three teams added in 1970.
- Bob McAdoo remains the franchise’s first and only league MVP.
- The Intuit Dome includes a massive solar power system, making it one of the NBA’s greenest arenas.
- Steve Ballmer’s ownership, starting in 2014, revitalized the team’s culture and direction.
Notable Los Angeles Clippers Players
The Clippers have featured numerous stars who left lasting impacts on the franchise:
Bob McAdoo
1975 MVP and early cornerstone of the franchise.McAdoo is also one of the youngest NBA MVPs when he won the award as the star player of the Buffalo Braves.
Elton Brand
Two-time All-Star and consistent interior force.
Blake Griffin
One of the NBA’s explosive dunkers in his prime, Griffin was a six-time All-Star and is one of the key players during the Lob City era.
Chris Paul
Elite playmaker who elevated the team’s competitiveness. Paul is one of the NBA’s best point guards, acting as the floor general and dishing out assists for his teammates.
DeAndre Jordan
Defensive anchor and rebounding presence during the Clippers’ Lob City era.
Kawhi Leonard
Two-time Finals MVP and current franchise leader. Leonard is widely considered to be one of the best NBA defenders at his position.
Paul George
All-Star scorer and defensive standout since 2019.
Notable Los Angeles Clippers Coaches
The Clippers’ progress has been guided by influential coaches who helped shape the team’s identity:
Jack Ramsay (1972-1976)
Led the Buffalo Braves to multiple playoff runs.
Larry Brown (1992-1993)
Ended a long playoff drought and built momentum.
Mike Dunleavy Sr. (2003-2010)
Guided the Clippers to their first playoff series win in 2006.
Vinny Del Negro (2010-2013)
Helped establish the Lob City era with consistent playoff appearances.
Doc Rivers (2013-2020)
Built a winning culture and competitive team identity.
Tyronn Lue (2020-present)
Known for his adaptability, Lue led the Clippers to their first Western Conference Finals in 2021.