David Stern: The Toughest Commissioner in Sports

Slavemaster. Racist. Selfish are just a few words that have been attributed to David Stern, but through it all he is proving to be a shining star. While Roger Goodell is hated by the players in the NFL for changing the rules of the games, imposing excessive fines, and for doing what ever he wants; conversely, the players in the NBA hate Stern because regardless of whatever claims that they say about him he has Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, and Bill Russell on his side.

It is impossible for the players to win the public opinion battle when the commissioner has that type of support.  The NBA commissioner has drawn a clear line in the sand and is on the verge of canceling the entire season, which will eliminate the 12 paychecks that the players normally receive for the year.

The whole premise of the new collective bargaining agreement is to let the top two stars make the most money and the other players on the team will fight over the remaining dollars, which will result in much more competition among the players on a nightly basis.  Livelihoods will be at stake. That is exactly what fans need and want because the NBA will then resemble the effort and competitive rivalries that were present during ’80′s basketball.

Do not be surprised if the players end up accepting a deal closer to a 55-45 or a 60-40 split if they are forced to sit out an entire year. The players have no leverage. It is amazing to watch it all play out between the players and owners, but Stern is ending basketball for the year, so that the NBA can become fantastic again for fans with more competition on a nightly basis.

How could anyone not side with the commissioner for doing what is best for the fans?  David Stern has officially won the public opinion battle over the players.