The Los Angeles Clippers have been one of the worst franchises in American professional sports for decades. Now that they are experiencing some success behind the play of Blake Griffin and Chris Paul, they’re leaving their biggest, most visible fan out in the cold. Darrell Bailey – better known as “Clipper Darrell” – has been asked by the organization to drop “Clipper” form his moniker. From Clipper Darrell’s official site:

It is with great sadness that I must report to all those in NBA NATION that I have been told by Clipper management they no longer want me to be Clipper Darrell, a name that was given to me by the media because of my unwavering support and team spirit. I am devastated!!!!

It’s good to see that a little success will never change a truly awful organization. More:

I have been a season ticket holder for over a decade and a FAN for over 15 years and have dedicated a major part of my life to support the Clipper organization and it’s players no matter what the season’s outcome. Over the years (400 home games) I have gone to great lengths to show my appreciation and loyalty in my attire, the car I drive and in my very own home. I’ve taken seriously the mantra of being “Clipper Darrell” in performing community service, mentoring young children and my participation in outreach programs. I’ve appreciated the struggles of the team to overcome obstacles as I’ve done in my life. I felt vindicated for all the years we as Clipper fans have gone through trials and tribulations and NOW we have a team that can win it all. Yesterday was the hardest day of my life, I felt powerless as a fan, as I was stripped of my identity however, no one can take away my heart and the love I have for my team!

I’ve never been been a big fan of “Super Fans,” but that doesn’t mean I don’t see their value. It’s incredibly short-sighted and dumb to turn your back on the one person who is most closely identified with your pitiful team. LA management had no problem when Clipper Darrell was a sideshow who got them something besides negative attention.

They put up with his shtick for more than a decade. This is just bad P.R. Especially, when you consider that L.A.’s two biggest stars, Blake Griffin and Chris Paul, have already tweeted their support of Darrell. These are two guys you want to sign long-term contracts. As nice as Los Angeles is, this is just more proof that these are the same old Clippers.

[ClipperDarrell.com, Getty]