San Diego Clippers Relocation (1978)
From the Golden State of San Diego to the City of Angels, a journey of survival and reinvention.
The relocation of the San Diego Clippers to Los Angeles in 1984 marks one of the most pivotal and controversial chapters in franchise history, though it is often mistakenly associated with 1978 due to earlier instability. This era represents the franchise's struggle for identity, financial survival, and a permanent home within the NBA landscape.
- Original Name
- Buffalo Braves
- San Diego Era Start
- 1978
- Los Angeles Move Year
- 1984
- Arena in San Diego
- San Diego Sports Arena
- Key Figure
- Donald Sterling (Owner)
- Status
- Relocated to Los Angeles
Lore & Background
The transition from San Diego to Los Angeles was not merely a change of address but a fundamental shift in the team's destiny. The move to the Forum in Inglewood placed them directly under the shadow of the Lakers, creating an immediate and intense rivalry that would define the franchise for decades. This relocation ended the 'San Diego' chapter, erasing a distinct era of NBA history to begin the long, arduous road toward becoming a Los Angeles institution.
In Their Own Story
The final buzzer echoed through the San Diego Sports Arena, a hollow sound in a half-empty house. Players packed their bags not with trophies, but with uncertainty. The neon sign outside flickered 'Clippers' one last time before being dismantled. As the bus pulled away from the coast, heading north toward the smog-choked sprawl of Los Angeles, the team carried the weight of a city that had loved them too little and a new market that demanded far more.
Reader's Guide
In San Diego, the team sought stability but faced persistent financial difficulties despite having talented rosters. Ownership changes and poor attendance led to the sale of the team in early 1984. Donald Sterling purchased the franchise with plans to move it closer to a major media market. In 1984, the Clippers officially relocated to Los Angeles, playing their first game at The Forum. This marked the end of the San Diego era and the beginning of life as the Los Angeles Clippers, setting the stage for future struggles against the Lakers.
Did You Know?
- The team played in San Diego for only six seasons before moving to Los Angeles.
- Bob McAdoo never played for the franchise during its time in San Diego; he was a star for the Buffalo Braves before the team moved.
- The move to Los Angeles placed them as the second NBA team in the city, sharing the market with the Lakers.
- San Diego had previously been home to the ABA's San Diego Conquistadors before the Clippers arrived.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Clippers actually move from San Diego to Los Angeles?
Although the franchise arrived in San Diego in 1978, they officially relocated to Los Angeles six years later in 1984. This timeline is often confused because the instability began earlier during their time on the West Coast.
Where did the team play their home games during the San Diego era?
The franchise played all its matches at the San Diego Sports Arena while based in Southern California. This venue remained their primary location throughout the six years before moving further south to Los Angeles.
Who was the owner responsible for guiding the team through these relocations?
Donald Sterling served as the key owner figure who managed the franchise during its difficult transition periods. His tenure covered the shift from Buffalo to San Diego and finally into Los Angeles.
Why is this specific period considered a pivotal chapter in Clippers history?
This era defines a critical fight to secure a lasting location after years of geographic shifting. It underscores the organization's resilience as it evolved from instability into a stable California-based team.