Donald Sterling Quotes

Powerful Donald Sterling for Daily Growth

About Donald Sterling

Donald Sterling (1934-2021), an American real estate mogul and controversial figure, is renowned primarily for his ownership of the Los Angeles Clippers basketball team. Born on April 26, 1934, in Chicago, Illinois, to Jewish immigrants from Russia, Donald T. Sterling grew up during the Great Depression. His parents instilled in him a strong work ethic and a desire for success. After serving in the United States Army, Sterling attended California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA) on the GI Bill. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in accountancy in 1963. Leveraging his education, Sterling entered the real estate business and quickly amassed a significant fortune through astute investments in commercial properties across Southern California. Sterling's influence on the sports world began in 1970 when he purchased the San Diego Clippers of the American Basketball Association (ABA). Following the ABA-NBA merger in 1976, Sterling moved the team to Los Angeles and has remained its owner ever since. Under his tenure, the Clippers have experienced both successes and scandals, including the controversial 2014 incident where recorded private conversations between Sterling and his then-girlfriend, V. Stiviano, led to widespread criticism and a subsequent lifetime ban from the NBA. Throughout his life, Donald Sterling has been known for his contentious personality and unconventional business tactics. However, his impact on real estate development and professional sports in Los Angeles is indisputable. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to be debated long after his passing on September 24, 2021.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I don't make the rules."

This quote suggests that Donald Sterling acknowledges he is not in control of making the rules or decisions regarding societal norms, laws, or expectations. It indicates a level of humility, acceptance, and recognition that there are systems, structures, or forces outside of his personal control shaping the world around him. This perspective can be interpreted as a form of self-awareness and understanding of one's limited influence in some aspects of life.


"I control every dime in and out."

The quote "I control every dime in and out" indicates that the person speaking (Donald Sterling) had a strong grip on their financial affairs, to the extent of controlling all inflows and outflows of money, which is often characteristic of someone with significant authority or ownership over an organization or enterprise.


"I'm a smart man."

The statement "I'm a smart man" indicates that the speaker has a high opinion of his own intelligence or cognitive abilities. It suggests that he values knowledge, problem-solving skills, and the ability to make informed decisions. However, without context, it is impossible to determine if this self-perception is supported by objective evidence. In general, self-confidence and self-awareness can be beneficial traits in various aspects of life, but they should ideally be tempered with humility and a willingness to learn from others as well.


"The thing about basketball is it's mainly a white sport."

This statement by Donald Sterling suggests a misguided, outdated perspective on the diversity of the sport of basketball. While it is true that the NBA (National Basketball Association), the professional league for basketball in North America, has historically been dominated by African American players, the sport itself transcends racial and ethnic boundaries worldwide. The global popularity of basketball demonstrates its inclusivity, as people of all races and cultures participate and excel at the game. It's essential to recognize and celebrate the diverse talent that enriches sports like basketball, rather than limiting our viewpoint to racial or ethnic generalizations.


"I want to live forever." (This quote is often misattributed to Sterling, but it was actually said by his wife Rochelle.)

This quote reflects a deep desire for immortality or an everlasting presence, often symbolizing the human longing to leave a lasting impact beyond one's lifetime. In this context, since it is actually Rochelle Sterling who said it, her intention may have been expressing a wish to ensure the legacy of her husband, Donald Sterling, long after he was gone.


What am I, a Frankenstein? What am I, some kind of an ogre? I'm a good person; I'm a warm person.

- Donald Sterling

Kind, Warm, Some, Frankenstein

I have five major corporations, and I operate them. How could I be retired?

- Donald Sterling

How, Operate, Major, Corporations

I like Korean employees, and I like Korean tenants.

- Donald Sterling

Employees, Like, Korean

I always think long term about anything. That's why I have never sold anything that I've ever purchased. And I never purchase anything that I don't think I'm going to keep for a lifetime.

- Donald Sterling

Think, Always, Sold, Long Term

I like people who are achievers.

- Donald Sterling

People, Like, Who, Achievers

Jews, when they get successful, they will help their people.

- Donald Sterling

Help, Will, Get, Jews

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.