The 'Lob City' Foundation (2005–2010)

Lore & Background

The franchise was founded as the Buffalo Braves in 1970. Led by Hall of Famer Bob McAdoo, the Braves reached the NBA playoffs three times during their eight seasons in Buffalo. Conflicts with the Canisius Golden Griffins over Buffalo Memorial Auditorium led to relocation to San Diego in 1978, where the team was renamed the Clippers. The team saw little success in San Diego, missing the playoffs all six years. In 1984, owner Donald Sterling controversially relocated the franchise to Los Angeles without NBA approval. Over their first 27 seasons in Los Angeles, the Clippers qualified for the postseason only four times and won a single playoff round. Their reputation improved during the 2010s with the Lob City lineup of Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan, and Chris Paul, leading to six consecutive playoff appearances from 2012 to 2017 and two division titles. The team reached the conference finals for the first time in 2021.

Reader's Guide

The Clippers are frequently referred to by their fans as 'the Clips' or 'LAC'. They are the oldest franchise in North American professional sports to have never played in a championship game.

Did You Know?

• Bob McAdoo led the NBA in scoring for three consecutive seasons and was MVP in 1974–75.
• The team was renamed 'Clippers' in San Diego in reference to sailing ships in San Diego Bay.
• The Clippers shared Crypto.com Arena with the Lakers, Sparks, and Kings from 2001 to 2024.