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The backlash toward Los Angeles Clippers' owner Donald Sterling seems to be just beginning, as key sponsors of the Clippers' franchise are beginning to sever ties with the team in the wake of racist comments attributed to Sterling by TMZ Sports.
According to ESPN.com, "used car dealership chain CarMax and airline Virgin America jumped ship as sponsors of the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday as advertisers pondered their partnerships with the team in the wake of racist remarks allegedly made by owner Donald Sterling."
"CarMax finds the statements attributed to the Clippers' owner completely unacceptable," public relations manager Catherine Gryp stated on Monday, via ESPN.com news services. "These views directly conflict with CarMax's culture of respect for all individuals. While we have been a proud Clippers sponsor for nine years and support the team, fans and community, these statements necessitate that CarMax end its sponsorship."
Virgin America stated that it will end its sponsorship deal with the team, but will "continue to support the fans and the players."
State Farm, Kia Motors America, and Red Bull have all come out in condemnation of Sterling's alleged remarks toward Los Angeles Lakers' legend Magic Johnson and African Americans in general. They will suspend advertising for the time being until the investigation by the NBA into the audio recording released by TMZ is concluded -- choosing to reevaluate their options after all is said and done.