Clippers interim CEO testifies that Doc Rivers will quit if Donald Sterling retains ownership

During Tuesday's continuation of the trial that seeks to determine whether Shelly Sterling was authorized to sell the Los Angeles Clippers to former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, interim CEO of the franchise Dick Parsons was called as a witness to discuss the impact that the ownership situation has had on the team.

Included in Parsons' testimony was mention of the discussions he's held with Doc Rivers, who has told him on multiple occasions that he doesn't think he wants to continue as head coach if Donald Sterling retains ownership of the franchise.

"If Doc were to leave, that would be a disaster," Parsons said. "Doc is the father figure of the team. Chris (Paul) is the on court captain of the team. But Doc is really the guy who leads the effort. He's the coach, the grown-up, he's a man of character and ability -- not just in a basketball sense, but in the ability to connect with people and gain their trust.

"The team believes in him and admires and loves him. If he were to bail, with all the other circumstances, it would accelerate the death spiral."

Donald Sterling's lawyers objected to Parsons' testimony, arguing that only Rivers should be able to comment on his state of mind, and saying he should be called as a witness if that is indeed where he stands on the issue.

Parsons also brought up his discussions with several players and key sponsors, some of which have made it clear that they'll only continue working with the Clippers if Sterling is ousted.

"If none of your sponsors want to sponsor you, your coach doesn't want to coach you, and players don't want to play for you, what do you have?" Parsons asked.