Judge clears way for $2 billion sale of Los Angeles Clippers

LOS ANGELES, July 28 (Reuters) - The record $2 billion sale of pro basketball's Los Angeles Clippers to former Microsoft Corp chief executive Steve Ballmer can proceed over the objections of co-owner Donald Sterling, a judge tentatively ruled on Monday. Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael Levanas said the deal, brokered by Sterling's estranged wife, Shelly Sterling, was permissible and could be consummated even if Sterling, who has been banned for life from the NBA for racist remarks, chose to appeal. (Reporting by Eric Kelsey; Writing by Mary Milliken; Editing by Steve Orlofsky)