Trey Fox
The Philadelphia 76ers have faced their fair share of scrutiny during the Process Era— from fans of the team, to opposing coaches, and individuals in team front offices. Brett Brown’s decisions were virtually under a microscope prior to last season, with pundits calling for his job on multiple occasions. Brown had to endure a lot during this era, with little talent at his disposal, so it’s great to see him finally receive the recognition that he deserves on an up-and-coming team.
The most recent critic of the Process is the Los Angeles Clippers owner, Steve Ballmer. Ballmer acquired the Clippers in 2014, and has been known ever since as a high-energy, eccentric “super fan.” Ballmer, during a recent gathering of Clippers fans, expressed his thoughts on the upcoming season.
During this gathering, Ballmer proclaimed that the Clippers will do whatever it takes to secure top free agents next summer. Following that reasonable statement, he made sure to take an unnecessary shot at the Sixers.
He insulted the Process and said that the Sixers put in a “long, hard five, six years of absolute crap.” Ballmer’s franchise has been a perpetual early-round playoff exit throughout his tenure. The Clippers have made it no further than the second round (historically), and the team failed to make the playoffs at all last season.
Perhaps he should consider taking a page out of the Sixers’ book, unless success in his mind is what most of us consider mediocre. Think about it: his fanbase faces the same disappointment year in and year out with no hope in sight.
Would you rather stagnate for an indefinite period of time with no draft leverage, or lose for a few consecutive years and secure a successful future for seasons to come? If you ask Steve Ballmer, he’d choose the former.