Now that Adam Silver has excised the evil Donald Sterling, the Los Angeles Clippers could be huge for ESPN and TNT.

A deep run in the playoffs likely will mean big ratings for the networks. Instead of being the object for scorn, the Clippers now become a symbol for persevering through blatant racism. They could become the De facto “America’s Team” during the playoffs.

TNT will go all in for tonight’s Game 5 in the Golden State-Clipper series. Both of the NBA’s partners will be pulling hard for the Clippers to win the series.

This story resonates more on a basketball court than in the courtroom. Triumph over adversity always is the most compelling angle. Nothing gets the country more pumped up than rallying for a team or athlete that is trying to get up off the floor.

Also, this story now is so big, it likely will attract non-traditional viewers who hadn’t heard of the Clippers prior to Saturday. They will push the ratings even higher.

So yes, TNT and ESPN would like Doc Rivers’ crew to take care of business tonight and eventually prevail against Golden State.

The dream NBA Final for ABC/ESPN: How about Clippers vs. Miami and LeBron?