Donald Sterling’s lawyers have hired four private investigation firms to dig up dirt on the NBA’s former and current commissioners and its 29 other owners, a source familiar with LA Clipper owner’s legal strategy told the AP.
Investigators were given a six-figure budget over the next 30 days to examine the league’s finances, allegations of previous discriminatory conduct and compensation to past Commissioner David Stern and current Commissioner Adam Silver.
The source said the investigators also are looking into whether other owners made any off-color jokes, or racist or s**ist remarks.
Donald Sterling, 80, is suing the NBA for $1 billion in federal court after the league tried to oust him as LA Clippers owner for making racist remarks to girlfriend V. Stiviano that were recorded and publicized. Adam Silver fined him $2.5 million and banned him for life.
The suit alleges the NBA violated Donald Sterling’s constitutional rights by relying on information from an “illegal” recording. It also said the league committed a breach of contract by fining Sterling and that it violated antitrust laws by trying to force a sale.
Donald Sterling’s attorneys will also be facing off with his wife’s attorneys in probate court during a four-day hearing scheduled for July.
