Bradley Beal Chooses Clippers: Ballmer’s Pitch Wins

Bradley Beal told reporters he chose the Los Angeles Clippers after being bought out by the Suns because "It wasn't an easy decision" and "Their pitch was honestly just better," praising owner Steve Ballmer and the organization's approach. The move matters: Beal joins a loaded core with Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, John Collins and Ivica Zubac, shifting title expectations and creating a high-scoring, star-driven roster after his rocky end in Phoenix. He also framed the Phoenix exit plainly: "It's a business... Phoenix made a decision...I can't do nothing but respect it." Merlin sees promise and peril in equal measure. A lineup with so many ball-stoppers can light up the scoreboard, but chemistry and health will decide the spell’s strength. Ballmer’s culture and a clear role for Beal could speed the fit — yet the magic only works if shots fall and egos align.