If or when a sale of the team takes place, whether voluntary or coerced, Sterling will receive full compensation for his proprietary interest in the team. That is guaranteed by league bylaws and state and federal law. There has been no serious suggestion otherwise.

The league could possibly eventually sell the team at market value if it is determined that the league has proper authority to compel a sale and the owner does not act with due speed in that regard. Also, the league must approve any sale before it takes place.But that scenario would be years in the future.

While the NBA appears to be on solid ground banning him from the game for life, forcing him to sell the team is a much harder proposition. Both sides have arguable legal bases.