Footwear maker Skechers waded into the crowd of potential investors mulling bids for the Los Angeles Clippers, saying Friday it was consulting with advisers about taking an ownership stake in the NBA team.
"As one of the five-largest athletic footwear companies in the United States and with roots deep in Southern California, we believe acquiring an interest in the Los Angeles Clippers is a natural fit for Skechers," CEO Robert Greenberg said in a statement.
"Like Skechers, the Clippers are a great Los Angeles brand with a loyal following and recognition that extends way beyond Southern California."
Amid the uproar surrounding his use of racist language, team owner Donald Sterling was banned for life from the NBA and fined $2.5 million. The league's advisory committee of owners is now weighing whether to force him to sell the team.
In recent days, names floated as potential buyers have included media and entertainment moguls Oprah Winfrey and David Geffen, Oracle chief Larry Ellison and former NBA star Magic Johnson.