David Stern, the former commissioner of the National Basketball Association (NBA), has a rich and varied background that laid the foundation for his successful career. Born on September 22, 1942, in New York City, Stern grew up in a family that valued education and hard work. His parents, William and Anna Stern, instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and a love for learning that would serve him well throughout his life. After graduating from Columbia High School in Maplewood, New Jersey, Stern went on to attend Columbia University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1963.
However, it was his time at Yale Law School that would have a profound impact on his future. Stern graduated from Yale in 1966, earning his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree. During his time at Yale, Stern was exposed to a wide range of intellectual and extracurricular activities that helped shape his interests and skills. He was an active member of the Yale Law School community, participating in various organizations and developing a strong network of contacts that would serve him well in his future career. The skills and knowledge he acquired during his time at Yale, combined with his natural aptitude for leadership and his passion for basketball, ultimately led him to become one of the most influential figures in the NBA.
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
After graduating from Yale Law School, Stern began his career as a lawyer, working for several years at the law firm of Proskauer Rose in New York City. In 1978, he joined the NBA as its general counsel, marking the beginning of a long and distinguished career with the league. Over the next several years, Stern worked his way up the ranks, becoming the league’s executive vice president in 1980 and ultimately succeeding Larry O’Brien as commissioner in 1984. During his tenure as commissioner, Stern oversaw a period of tremendous growth and transformation for the NBA, helping to establish the league as a global sports powerhouse.
Key Initiatives and Achievements
One of Stern’s most significant achievements as commissioner was his role in establishing the NBA as a global brand. He oversaw the creation of the NBA’s international office and worked to promote the league’s games and players around the world. This effort helped to increase the NBA’s popularity and attract new fans, ultimately leading to significant revenue growth for the league. Stern also played a key role in shaping the NBA’s domestic landscape, helping to establish new teams and relocate existing ones to more viable markets. His leadership and vision helped to establish the NBA as one of the premier professional sports leagues in the world.
| Year | NBA Revenue (in millions) |
|---|---|
| 1984 | $165 |
| 1990 | $345 |
| 2000 | $1.8 billion |
| 2010 | $3.9 billion |
Legacy and Impact
David Stern’s legacy as commissioner of the NBA is still felt today. His efforts to promote the league and its players helped to establish the NBA as a global sports powerhouse, and his leadership and vision helped to shape the league into what it is today. Stern’s commitment to social responsibility and community outreach also helped to establish the NBA as a leader in these areas, with programs such as the NBA Cares initiative and the Basketball Without Borders program. His impact on the game of basketball extends far beyond his time as commissioner, and he remains one of the most influential figures in the history of the NBA.
Post-Commissioner Career
After stepping down as commissioner in 2014, Stern went on to become a senior advisor to the NBA, providing guidance and counsel to the league on a range of issues. He has also remained active in various philanthropic and business endeavors, serving on the boards of several organizations and companies. Stern’s continued involvement in the NBA and his commitment to giving back to the community are a testament to his enduring legacy and his ongoing impact on the game of basketball.
What was David Stern’s most significant achievement as commissioner of the NBA?
+David Stern’s most significant achievement as commissioner was his role in establishing the NBA as a global brand. He oversaw the creation of the NBA’s international office and worked to promote the league’s games and players around the world, ultimately helping to increase the NBA’s popularity and attract new fans.
What is David Stern’s legacy in the NBA?
+David Stern’s legacy in the NBA is still felt today. His efforts to promote the league and its players helped to establish the NBA as a global sports powerhouse, and his leadership and vision helped to shape the league into what it is today. He remains one of the most influential figures in the history of the NBA.
