Griffin gets that in order to reach the top, one has to endure a lot to get there

Blake Griffin understands that in order for an athlete to reach the top, he or she may have to go through adversity to get there.

The Clippers were eliminated Thursday by the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 6 of their Western Conference semifinals series at Staples Center. On Friday, Griffin talked about about the trials and tribulations of both his team’s play on the court as well as what they had to deal with off the court, no thanks to now-banned team owner Donald Sterling.

Griffin was philosophical about it all, knowing that going through a lot will make it all the better if and when he and the Clippers win an NBA title.

“I’ve heard guys say it makes it that much sweeter when you do get to the top,” Griffin said.