Stern Earns International Impact Recognition
NBA Commissioner Emeritus David Stern has been awarded the inaugural International Impact Award at the prestigious BT Sport Industry Awards in London, becoming the first American to win an Award in the event’s 13-year history.
Presented for the first time at the annual gathering of the industry’s key stakeholders in London, the International Impact Award recognised Stern’s extraordinary impact on the international sport industry. During his 30-year tenure as Commissioner, he not only led the NBA’s transformation into one of the most popular sports leagues in the world but changed the face of basketball globally and drove the league’s commitment to social responsibility.
Stern was presented the Award by six-time Grand Slam Tennis champion Boris Becker. Becker praised the impact and significance of Stern’s work, commenting: “Being presented the International Impact Award at the BT Sport Industry Awards is testament to David Stern’s reputation as a pioneer in the industry. His legacy spans across continents with legendary NBA players and teams now playing across the world with games taking place from Rio to Beijing and from Mexico City to London. His leadership is a model for all sports in the digital age.”
Throughout his time as Commissioner, from when he first took office in 1984 to when he handed over the reins to Adam Silver this year, Stern worked tirelessly to grow the sport of basketball on a global basis. His achievements included the addition of seven new franchises, a 30-fold increase in revenue and the launch of the WNBA.
Under Stern’s stewardship, the NBA experienced a tremendous rise in global popularity, which has led to the opening of offices in 14 global markets and the televising of games in 215 countries and territories in 47 languages. The NBA has not only become one of sport’s most marketable products but has led the way in using sport as a tool for social change. Following decades of community service, in 2005 the NBA launched NBA Cares, which has established social responsibility programs and partnerships unmatched by any professional league.
“I am proud to have received the International Impact Award at the BT Sport Industry Awards, and I accept it on behalf of the entire NBA family,” said David Stern. The NBA’s popularity and growth on a global scale has been one of the proudest achievements of my career. Just as importantly, we have used the values of our game – teamwork, sportsmanship, leadership and dedication – to strengthen communities around the world and improve the lives of those most in need. It is that work and our long-standing commitment to diversity, inclusion and respect that will be our enduring legacy.”
BT is the Official Headline Partner of the BT Sport Industry Awards. Official Partners include Barclays, Deloitte and Eurosport. For more information or the full list of winners, visit sig-staging.ypstagingserver.com/
