Steve Ballmer's role in helping force arena deals with the Sacramento Kings and Minnesota Timberwolves due to his interest in purchasing those franchises in hopes of relocating to Seattle played a role in Adam Silver helping him land the Los Angeles Clippers, according to sources.

Ballmer, working with Chris Hansen, made three unsuccessful bids for the Kings, Wolves and Milwaukee Bucks over the past year.

Ballmer made a $2 billion for the Los Angeles Clippers this week.

For Hansen to get a team to Seattle, he will likely face a pricetag over $1 billion and will do so without his wealthiest partner in Ballmer.