The sale of the Los Angeles Clippers to former Microsoft chief executive Steve Ballmer has closed, the National Basketball Association announced Tuesday.

The close of the $2 billion purchase officially ends the three-decade ownership of the Sterling Family Trust. The sale comes after the league fined and banned Donald Sterling for racist comments he made earlier this year that were recorded by his companion V. Stiviano and then publicized. After the league’s punishment, Shelly Sterling arranged the sale to Ballmer. Donald Sterling protested in court but lost.

The NBA filed a countersuit against Sterling on Monday, seeking damages related to his comments and legal fight.

The close of the deal was applauded in statements on Tuesday by players Blake Griffin and Chris Paul, as well as head coach Doc Rivers.

“This is an amazing new day in Clippers history,” Rivers said. “I couldn’t be more excited to work together with Steve as we continue to build a first-class, championship organization. I am already inspired by Steve’s passion for the game, his love of competition and desire to win the right way and I know our players and fans are going to be inspired as well.”