David Stern praises Adam Silver, NBA for handling of Sterling saga

Former commissioner David Stern commended the NBA for the manner in which it has handled the Donald Sterling controversy and envisions a favorable conclusion for the league.

Former commissioner David Stern commended the NBA for the manner in which it has handled the Donald Sterling controversy and envisions a favorable conclusion for the league.

Stern commented on the Sterling controversy in an interview with Brian Mahoney of the Associated Press. 

Adam Silver, the league's current commissioner, issued Sterling a maximum $2.5 million fine and lifetime ban in April after the release of a recording of Sterling making racist remarks.

Stern praised Silver, saying he has been "forceful" while demonstrating "a compassionate side."

"He's done great. He has been forceful, he has been reflective, he has been buttoned-down and I think he has also demonstrated a compassionate side as well,"

Stern said Wednesday

during a phone interview.

"Adam has been a part of the fabric of every important decision and event for the last 22 years," Stern said. "He knows exactly what to do, he's done mostly everything, and he's continuing his run as being a terrific manager."

A probate judge ruled Monday that Sterling's wife, Shelly, can move forward with a $2 billion sale of the Los Angeles Clippers to former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer.

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- Chris Johnson