Rochelle “Shelly” Stein has been a significant figure in both business and sports, known primarily for her long-term partnership with her husband, Donald Sterling. The couple has been married for nearly 70 years, having tied the knot in 1955. Over the decades, Rochelle and Donald built a substantial real estate empire together, demonstrating a deep and enduring partnership both in their personal lives and professional endeavors.
How Did Rochelle Co-Own the LA Clippers?
Rochelle co-owned the LA Clippers with her husband until 2014, when a scandal forced Donald to sell the team. The controversy erupted after a recording of Donald making racist remarks became public, leading to his ousting from the NBA. Despite the turmoil, Rochelle managed to retain a connection to the Clippers by acquiring courtside seats and additional seating at the Staples Center (now Crypto.com Arena), becoming a regular fixture at the games. Her dedication to the team and her knowledge of the sport has been well-noted by those who have attended games with her.
What Happened After the Scandal?
The scandal surrounding Donald Sterling reached its peak when V. Stiviano, his companion, recorded him making racist comments about her bringing African-American men to Clippers games. This recording led to a $2.5 million fine for Donald, a lifetime ban from the NBA, and the forced sale of the Clippers to former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer for $2 billion. Despite the severity of the ban, Rochelle and her legal team have fought to have it lifted, though it remains in place as of June 2024.
How Did the Scandal Impact Their Marriage?
The fallout from the scandal had a profound impact on Donald and Rochelle’s marriage. In 2015, Donald filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences and stating they had been separated since 2012. However, by March 2016, the couple decided to call off the divorce. Donald’s attorney, Bobby Samini, confirmed that the Sterlings had resolved their differences despite the challenging events of the previous years.
Who Are Donald and Rochelle’s Children?
Donald and Rochelle Sterling have three children: daughter Joanna Sterling Miller, and sons Chris Sterling and Scott Sterling. Tragically, their son Scott died of a drug overdose at the age of 32 in December 2012, after injecting narcotics intended for oral consumption. This loss deeply affected the family, adding another layer of complexity to their already tumultuous lives.
What Is the FX Miniseries “Clipped”?
“Clipped” is an FX miniseries that delves into the scandals surrounding the LA Clippers, particularly focusing on Donald Sterling’s racist remarks. Based on the ESPN 30 for 30 podcast “The Sterling Affairs,” this six-episode series offers a behind-the-scenes look at the fallout from the infamous tape and its impact on the Clippers and the Sterlings’ marriage. It premiered on Hulu on June 4, 2024, with the first two episodes now available for streaming. The series promises to provide an in-depth look at one of the most significant controversies in recent NBA history.
How Have Donald and Rochelle Moved On?
Despite the public and personal upheaval, both Donald and Rochelle have found ways to move forward. Rochelle continues to be actively involved in the basketball community, frequently attending Clippers games and maintaining her presence in the NBA scene. Donald, on the other hand, has expressed contentment with his life post-scandal. In a 2017 interview with NBC News, he stated, “I am as happy as I have ever been. I am as comfortable as I have ever been. And I don’t want to do anything to disturb that.”
What Are the Latest Developments in the Sterling Story?
As of June 2024, the ban on Donald Sterling remains in place, despite Rochelle’s efforts to have it lifted. The NBA has yet to indicate any change in their stance. Meanwhile, the FX series “Clipped” continues to bring attention to the Sterling scandal, ensuring that the events of 2014 remain a significant part of public discourse.
Rochelle Stein’s life with Donald Sterling has been marked by immense highs and devastating lows. From building a real estate fortune and co-owning an NBA team to navigating a highly publicized scandal, Rochelle’s story is one of resilience and dedication. The legacy of the Sterlings, particularly their impact on the NBA and the enduring scandal, continues to be a subject of fascination and scrutiny. As they move forward, the narrative of their lives remains a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges that come with immense wealth and public scrutiny.
