Pistons' Blake Griffin Ignores Clippers Owner Steve Ballmer, Drops 44 In Return to Los Angeles

Griffin was traded from the Clippers abruptly last January after spending nine seasons in Los Angeles.

Pistons forward Blake Griffin made his much-anticipated return to Los Angeles when Detroit took on the Clippers in the Staples Center on Saturday afternoon, with Detroit beating L.A. 109-104.

As Griffin was about to head into the locker room after an early warm up, Clippers owner Steve Ballmer was waiting for the five-time NBA All-Star on the sidelines. Ballmer extended his hand for a handshake, but Griffin ignored his attempt and instead seemingly sprinted off the court.

Ballmer reportedly yelled “Blake! Blake!” with his hand out as Griffin made his way toward the locker room.

Blake is truly a Piston now. #DetroitVsEverybody pic.twitter.com/UiAoGi4Yow

— Bally Sports Detroit (@BallySportsDET) January 12, 2019

Griffin claimed Saturday's run to the locker room is part of his normal pregame routine. He denied intentionally ignoring Balmer. 

Blake Griffin said he did not acknowledge Steve Ballmer due to his pregame routine.

(via @malika_andrews / ESPN) pic.twitter.com/VwpWx3dPz7

— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) January 13, 2019

Griffin did acknowledge the Staples Center crowd following a tribute video streamed on the arena's jumbotron during an early first-quarter timeout. 

A warm reception for @blakegriffin23 just now at Staples Center! pic.twitter.com/00ZqHYeXxR

— Bally Sports West (@BallySportWest) January 12, 2019

The star big man was traded to Detroit abruptly last January after spending nine seasons in Los Angeles. The Clippers sent Griffin across the country alongside Brice Johnson and Willie Reed in exchange for Avery Bradley, Boban Marjanovich, Tobias Harris, a first-round pick and a 2019 second-round pick.

Griffin was averaging 25.1 points, 8.3 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game this season for Detroit coming into Saturday's game. He finished the game with 44 points, eight rebounds and five assists.