One of the most well-known executives in sports – and a man credited with the creation of the WNBA in the 1990s was the focal point of a bit of sad news.
Former NBA commissioner David Stern, it was announced, had suffered a brain hemorrhage and was taken into a New York City hospital.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, the 77-year old Stern was at a restaurant in Manhattan before collapsing.
NBA statement on David Stern. pic.twitter.com/jAVDvDkVmF
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) December 13, 2019
Stern was NBA commissioner from 1984 to 2014 when he was succeeded by current commissioner Adam Silver. During his time, he oversaw many landmark achievements for the NBA, including the WNBA’s establishment. Val Ackerman, Donna Orender and Laurel Richie all were league presidents with the WNBA during Stern’s tenure as NBA commissioner.
When the news broke, a torrent of social media love was shown to the ex-NBA commissioner.
Prayers up for Mr. David Stern. He’s done so much for so many. He’s the reason the WNBA exists. Keep fighting! https://t.co/mHA0dkxid2
— Sheryl Swoopes (@airswoopes22) December 13, 2019
Please pray for David Stern after having a brain hemorrhage. He changed so much of what we all have today in the @nba @WNBA @nbagleague #GodBlesshim
— Nancy Lieberman (@NancyLieberman) December 13, 2019
Ex NBA commissioner David Stern, who, with enormous vision, led the NBA for a staggering 30 yrs, founded WNBA, and much more, suffered a stroke today in NY. He befriended so many w his wit, wisdom, and warmth, and we all are pulling for him to recover.
— Nina Totenberg (@NinaTotenberg) December 13, 2019
Join Cookie and I in praying for my good friend who helped save my life, former NBA Commissioner David Stern. He suffered a brain hemorrhage and had to have emergency surgery. 🙏🏾
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) December 13, 2019
The Inside Guys send their thoughts and prayers to former NBA Commissioner David Stern and his family 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Ja3fi2BLAx
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) December 13, 2019
