SAN FRANCISCO — Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer is making the leap from the tech world to professional sports as the new owner of the L.A. Clippers, and he’s no doubt getting lots of advice. But one person in particular knows almost exactly what Ballmer is going through.
Technology investor and Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, speaking today at the TechCrunch Disrupt conference, was asked if he had any suggestions for Ballmer. Cuban said the former Microsoft CEO needs to be prepared to have everything he does as the owner of the team recorded, and he said he advised Ballmer to use his app, Cyber Dust, to protect his online chats.
But Cuban, who is known for his passionate displays at Mavericks games, said that he’s hoping Ballmer won’t tone down his trademark enthusiasm.
“I’m hoping he’s crazy, because it’ll give me a little sidekick,” Cuban said.
He added that fans “want to see an owner who eats, sleeps and breathes the team.”
Based on Ballmer’s first Clippers rally, he shouldn’t have any problems with that.
