Lessons in Leadership from NBA Commissioner David Stern

Can police leaders learn anything from the legacy of NBA Commissioner Emeritus David Stern? The answer is a resounding yes. Stern’s impact on the NBA transcends sports; his leadership principles offer valuable lessons for leaders in any field, including law enforcement.

David Stern served as the NBA commissioner from 1984 to 2014, a period of unprecedented growth and global expansion for the league. He passed away on January 1, 2020, at the age of 77, following a brain hemorrhage. His death prompted an outpouring of tributes from NBA players, owners, broadcasters, and sportswriters, all attesting to his extraordinary legacy.

As a graduate of the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute (SLI), I am always looking for leadership lessons in unexpected places. Watching NBA-TV in the wake of Stern’s death, I was struck by the heartfelt stories shared by iconic figures like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Charles Barkley, LeBron James, and many others. These weren’t generic platitudes; they were specific anecdotes illustrating Stern’s profound impact on their lives and the game of basketball.

LeBron James even placed Stern on par with James Naismith, the inventor of basketball, a testament to his transformative influence. Here are some key leadership fundamentals evident in the stories shared about David Stern:

• Personal Compassion: Stern demonstrated genuine care for the players, knowing details about their personal lives and showing concern for their well-being and that of their families. This personal compassion fostered loyalty and respect.
• No-Nonsense Disciplinarian: Players like Charles Barkley and Greg Anthony admitted that being called into Stern’s office was not a pleasant experience. However, they also felt that Stern wanted them to succeed and was helping them understand how their behavior was self-destructive. This approach instilled a desire not to let him down.
• Protecting the Product and Reputation: Stern understood the complexities of managing a league with diverse personalities and high stakes. He skillfully balanced diplomacy, tough love, grace, and mercy to transform the NBA from a struggling sport into a global phenomenon. He convinced everyone to protect the “NBA” like family, safeguarding its reputation.
• Visionary: Kevin McHale praised Stern’s visionary leadership in taking the NBA to the world. While some initially doubted his ambitious plans, Stern’s vision proved correct, as basketball became a truly global sport with players from all over the world. He took the game to unexpected places, and people followed his visionary lead.
• Earned Respect: Stern earned the respect of players and media alike. Jackie MacMullan recounted how Stern supported a young female sportswriter who had been intimidated by an athlete. His actions created instant respect. Players consistently shared stories demonstrating that Stern’s respect was earned, not demanded.
• Brought Opposing Forces Together: Stern had the ability to bridge divides between owners and players, who often had conflicting interests. He brokered deals that benefited all parties by helping them see each other’s perspectives. This skill in negotiation and bringing opposing forces together was crucial to the NBA’s success.
• Developed a Protégé to Replace Him: Stern groomed Adam Silver, who joined the NBA in 1992, eventually becoming his chief operating officer and deputy commissioner. When Stern retired in 2014, Silver seamlessly transitioned into the role of commissioner, a testament to Stern’s commitment to leadership development and succession planning.

While most of us won’t reach Stern’s level of influence, we are all leaders in our own spheres. I hope these lessons from his legacy provide valuable additions to your leadership toolkit. As always, be safe out there!

(Feature image: Pixabay)