Lawyer says other people calling Donald Sterling to testify was used to spotlight his absence . Trial begins in state court after federal court denied it had jurisdiction in the case . Shelly Sterling wants judge to approve her proposed sale of NBA 's Los Angeles Lakers . One of Donald Sterling 's attorneys , Gary Ruttenberg , told reporters the move was a ploy meant to bring attention to his absence . The Sterlings have owned the team equally through a trust .
Lawyer says other people calling Donald Sterling to testify was used to spotlight his absence . Trial begins in state court after federal court denied it had jurisdiction in the case . Shelly Sterling wants judge to approve her proposed sale of NBA 's Los Angeles Lakers . The Sterlings have owned the team equally through a trust .