Several past and present NBA players are mourning the death of former NBA commissioner David Stern. Go inside to see their tributes….
Sadly, David Stern – the former NBA commissioner – reportedly died Wednesday, rocking the basketball world. He was 77.
Since his death, several NBA players – past and present – have posted tributes to the former NBA commissioner who welcomed them into the NBA family. According to reports, David Stern died a brain hemorrhage he suffered several weeks ago. It's reported he suffered the brain hemorrhage December 12 while dining in a Manhattan restaurant. He leaves behind his wife Dianne, and their two sons, Eric and Andrew.
Lakers baller LeBron James hopped on social media to pay tribute to Mr. Stern, who served as the NBA commissioner for 30 years (1984 - 2014):
After the Lakers defeated the Phoenix Suns (117-107) yesterday, King James suggested Mr. Stern be remembered in a different way.
“He definitely should have something named after him,” LeBron said. “Either if it’s an award, or, I don’t know, a day? During the course of an NBA season, there’s a ‘David Stern Day.’ I don’t know. We can figure it out.”
David became the fourth commissioner of the NBA on February 1, 1984. He previously served as the NBA's general counsel from 1978 until 1980, and then as Executive Vice President of the NBA from 1980 until 1984.
He has a long, successful run and decided in 2021 he would step down in February 2014. He tapped Adam Silver as his replacement. At the time of his retirement, Stern was the longest serving NBA commissioner, having held the position for exactly 30 years.
Golden State Warriors player Steph Curry paid tribute to the former NBA commissioner:
Oklahoma City guard Chris Paul, who is also the president of the National Basketball Players Association, mourned David on his social media:
Former NBA superstar Magic Johnson also took to his social media to pay tribute to David:
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 1, 2020
Cookie and I are devastated to hear about the passing of my longtime friend and former NBA Commissioner David Stern. A great man, husband, father, friend, businessman, and visionary, I loved and respected him.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 1, 2020
For 30 years as NBA Commissioner, David grew the NBA to become one of the most popular leagues in the world with his revolutionary ideas. He took the NBA Finals from tape delay to live games & then began every Sunday on CBS highlighting Larry Bird’s Celtics & my Showtime Lakers.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 1, 2020
David Stern was such a history maker. When I announced in 1991 I had HIV, people thought they could get the virus from shaking my hand. When David allowed me to play in the 1992 All Star Game in Orlando and then play for the Olympic Dream Team, we were able to change the world.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 1, 2020
Cookie and I are praying for the Stern family, his lovely wife Dianne and sons Eric and Andrew. May God comfort you during this time. Our hearts go out to you!
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 1, 2020
NBA legend Michael Jordan - arguably one of the best to ever play the game - issued a statement following David's death:
“Without David Stern, the NBA would not be what it is today. He guided the league through turbulent times and grew the league into an international phenomenon, creating opportunities that few could have imagined before. His vision and leadership provided me with the global stage that allowed me to succeed. David had a deep love for the game of basketball and demanded excellence from those around him – and I admired him for that. I wouldn’t be where I am without him. I offer my deepest sympathies to Dianne and his family.”
Former NBA player Jalen Rose spoke about David changed the NBA game as commissioner on ESPN:
Current NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, who is David's successor, spoke highly of the man who came before him:
“For 22 years, I had a courtside seat to watch David in action," he said in a statement. "He was a mentor and one of my dearest friends. Like every NBA legend, David had extraordinary talents, but with him it was always about the fundamentals – preparation, attention to detail, and hard work.
“Because of David, the NBA is a truly global brand – making him not only one of the greatest sports commissioners of all time but also one of the most influential business leaders of his generation. Every member of the NBA family is the beneficiary of David’s vision, generosity and inspiration.”
Prayers up for the Stern Family as well to his friends and fans.
Photo: Getty
source: theybf
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