Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer has announced that he's stepping down from the company's board, effective immediately.

With his ownership of the LA Clippers, teaching, and "civic contribution" taking his time, Ballmer wrote that he's now "very busy," and with both a new NBA season and new class of students, it would be "impractical" for him to remain on the board.

In announcing his departure, Ballmer expressed confidence in new CEO Satya Nadella's leadership, noting that although there are challenges ahead, there are also great opportunities, and he said that Microsoft's mix of software, hardware, and cloud skills is unmatched in the industry.

After 34 years, this ends Steve Ballmer's direct involvement in Microsoft's business. He does, however, remain the largest non-institutional shareholder, and he said that he expects to retain this position for the foreseeable future.