David Stern, who served as NBA commissioner for 30 years, died Wednesday at the age of 77, the league announced.
Thunder chairman Clay Bennett issued the following statement on Stern's passing.
"Beyond his creative brilliance and forceful leadership, David was a dear friend and trusted advisor to me over the course of more than two decades," Bennett wrote. "Our business relationship took us through multiple and sometimes challenging issues together as well as great triumphs. Through it all, David led with strength, fairness and a keen sense of doing what was right for our franchises, our players and our fans.