NBA believes Grant Hill viable contender to purchase Los Angeles Clippers

May 3, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; General view of the Los Angeles Clippers logo on the court before game seven of the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs against the Golden State Warriors at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
May 3, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; General view of the Los Angeles Clippers logo on the court before game seven of the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs against the Golden State Warriors at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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When the NBA puts the Los Angeles Clippers up for sale, an ownership group that includes former player Grant Hill is expected to bid on the popular Southern California franchise.

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Not only that, they’re considered to be a viable contender according to ESPN who hits Hill and his group could be among the favorites to secure the franchise once it becomes available.

“Sources told ESPN.com that Hill’s group is already regarded by league officials as a viable contender for the Clippers in what is forecast to be a highly competitive auction when the franchise finally hits the open market. One industry source told ESPN.com this week that the bidding could start as high as the $1.5 billion range.”

While we had heard of Hill’s intention to purchase the team, we didn’t hear who’d be joining him until recently.

Rumored to be included in the investor group are billionaires Tony Ressler and Bruce Karsh, so it’s safe to say finances aren’t likely to be a problem.

Of course, they won’t be the only interested party in obtaining the Clippers franchise, so they’re sure to have a rash of competition though the NBA has to love the idea of selling to a former player, even if he won’t be the majority owner.

Hill has previously stated a desire to purchase an NBA team which included both the Phoenix Suns and Orlando Magic, though neither team was ever within his grasp.