Clippers in Intuit Dome

The Los Angeles Clippers debuted their new $2 billion Intuit Dome with a narrow 116-113 loss to the Phoenix Suns. A standout feature of the arena is 'The Wall,' a steep, 51-row section reserved for dedicated fans, which aims to create a raucous atmosphere reminiscent of college basketball environments. Kevin Durant noted that the unique design of The Wall reminded him of his experiences at Oklahoma State, emphasizing its potential to intimidate visiting teams. Despite the loss, Clippers players acknowledged the competitive effort and highlighted their defensive performance, which notably pressured Suns stars. Owner Steve Ballmer's vision for the arena is to enhance the fan experience and redefine the Clippers' identity, distancing the team from the longstanding shadow of the Lakers. With major events already planned for the Intuit Dome, including the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend, it represents a significant step in the franchise's rebranding efforts.