David Stern is one of the most successful commissioners in the history of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He served as commissioner from 1984 to 2014, and during his tenure, the league saw unprecedented growth in popularity, revenue, and global reach. In this article, we’ll explore when David Stern retired from the NBA and the legacy he left behind.
Early Career
David Stern began his career in 1976 as an outside counsel for the NBA. He worked on a variety of legal issues for the league, and in 1978 he was promoted to general counsel. In 1980, he was promoted again to Executive Vice President of Business and Legal Affairs. In 1984, he was appointed Commissioner of the NBA.
The Stern Era
The NBA experienced dramatic growth under the leadership of David Stern. He negotiated a series of television contracts that increased the league’s national exposure, and he helped the NBA secure international broadcast rights. He also worked to create the WNBA, which provided opportunities for female athletes to compete in a professional basketball league.
Growth of the NBA
During the Stern era, the NBA saw unprecedented growth in popularity and revenue. The league’s average attendance grew by 32% between 1984 and 2014. The NBA also became more profitable, with revenues increasing from $165 million in 1984 to $5.5 billion in 2014. The league also experienced a surge in popularity in the 1990s, thanks to the emergence of superstars like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Shaquille O’Neal.
Global Expansion
Under David Stern’s leadership, the NBA also experienced global expansion. He helped the league secure broadcast rights in countries around the world, and he worked to develop basketball academies in China and India. He also helped launch the NBA’s Europe Live series, which brought basketball games to countries across Europe.
Labor Disputes
David Stern also had to navigate several labor disputes during his tenure as commissioner. He negotiated a new collective bargaining agreement in 1999, which resulted in a six-year lockout that lasted from 1998 to 2004. He also presided over the negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement in 2011, which resulted in a shortened 2011-2012 season.
Legacy
David Stern’s legacy is one of growth and innovation. He was instrumental in helping the NBA become one of the most popular sports leagues in the world. He also helped the league secure international broadcast rights, and as a result, basketball is now one of the most popular sports in countries around the world.
Retirement
David Stern retired as commissioner of the NBA on February 1, 2014. He had served as the league’s commissioner for 30 years, and he was succeeded by Adam Silver. In his farewell speech, Stern thanked the players, owners, and fans for their support during his tenure.
Reaction
The response to David Stern’s retirement was overwhelmingly positive. He was widely praised for his leadership and for his role in the growth of the NBA. Players, owners, and fans alike expressed their appreciation for his contributions to the league.
Conclusion
David Stern is one of the most successful commissioners in the history of the NBA. He served as commissioner from 1984 to 2014 and during his tenure, the league experienced unprecedented growth in popularity, revenue, and global reach. He was instrumental in helping the NBA become one of the most popular sports leagues in the world, and he was widely praised for his leadership and dedication to the game. On February 1, 2014, David Stern retired from the NBA, leaving behind a legacy of success.