Thibodeau On Adam Silver: He Was 'Very Strong'
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau was impressed with the authoritative stand NBA commissioner Adam Silver took in banning Clippers owner Donald Sterling from the league for life following the recent revelation of the latter's ugly, insensitive racist remarks.
"I thought he handled it great, thought the owners did a great job, the players association and of course (Clippers coach) Doc Rivers along with (Clippers point guard) Chris Paul," Thibodeau said prior to Tuesday's Game 5 matchup against the Wizards at the United Center." I'm just glad Doc's there running that organization. I think they did the right thing, and obviously there's no place for that type of behavior in our league. Adam was very strong.
"It's unfortunate, the whole thing, but it's a strong statement by the league, and it needed to be made. It's great leadership by Adam."
Sterling was also fined $2.5 million, and the NBA plans to enact a clause that will allow it to force the sale of the Clippers to new ownership.
"It's a great league," Thibodeau said. "The way the league responded was the correct way, and I think everyone's pleased with what the commissioner did."
Cody Westerlund is a sports editor for CBSChicago.com and covers the Bulls. Follow him on Twitter @CodyWesterlund.