Kings honor former NBA commissioner David Stern before game against Memphis Grizzlies
The Kings aired a special video tribute and observed a moment of silence for former NBA commissioner David Stern before Thursday’s game against the Memphis Grizzlies at Golden 1 Center.
Stern, 77, died Wednesday, three weeks after suffering a brain hemorrhage at a Manhattan restaurant.
Stern served as commissioner of the NBA for 30 years. He leaves behind an enormous legacy that will be remembered near and far. Stern is credited with globalizing the game and growing the NBA into a $5 billion a year industry. He also played an essential role in helping Sacramento keep the Kings after years of relocation talks.
After opening Golden 1 Center 2016, the Kings named a street after Stern and changed the arena’s address to 500 David J. Stern Walk. Kings fans gave Stern a rousing ovation when he was honored on the videoboard inside the arena before the game.
Kings coach Luke Walton offered condolences during his pregame news conference.
“I think it’s important to start with talking about David Stern and what he’s meant to this league and this organization, and the major role he had in keeping this team in Sacramento and the major role he had in really getting the NBA to where it’s at now,” Walton said. “It’s just unbelievable and we want to share our thoughts and prayers with his family and publicly give him thanks for everything he’s done for our league.”
