With the 2025 NBA Playoffs heating up, Adam Silver, the longtime commissioner of the NBA, is once again proving why he’s one of the most respected voices in professional sports. But this time, it’s not about rule changes or team expansions — it’s about how the media covers the game.
In a refreshingly honest conversation on the Numbers on the Board podcast, Silver shared a concern that many fans have echoed:
“Sometimes they don’t spend enough time talking about why people love this game.”
He wasn’t throwing shade — just making a heartfelt plea. His point? It’s time to shift the conversation from constant drama to celebrating basketball itself.
Why Is Silver Urging the Media to “Celebrate the Game”?
Silver’s comments were inspired by a recent conversation with legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski (yes, Coach K himself). According to Silver, Coach K put it plainly:
“We should educate people about the game and celebrate the game.”
And Silver agrees.
He’s not saying that criticism or tough questions should be off-limits. Far from it.
“It’s not a suggestion that people shouldn’t ask tough questions or be critical,” he clarified. “But I wish there was more educating and celebrating.”
His concern is that NBA coverage has become too centered on controversy:
- Endless GOAT debates
- Player feuds and trade rumors
- Hot takes about past vs. present
All of this overshadows the incredible talent, sportsmanship, and evolution of the game that’s happening right now.
How Much Is Adam Silver Worth in 2025?
Adam Silver has been leading the NBA since 2014, and he’s made a massive impact — from international growth to player advocacy to handling crises like the pandemic and social justice movements.
💰 As of 2025, Adam Silver’s net worth is estimated to be around $40 million.
That figure comes from his long tenure as commissioner, reported annual salaries of $10 million+, and endorsements, speaking engagements, and board positions.
But for all his financial success, Silver remains laser-focused on the integrity and joy of the game.
Why Does This Matter Right Now?
The 2025 playoffs have been wild. We’ve seen:
- Buzzer beaters
- Rising stars putting up career-defining performances
- Coaches drawing up masterclass strategies
But what’s trending online?
Debates about who’s “soft,”
Arguments over who’d beat who in the ‘90s,
And nonstop talk about who’s leaving which team next.
Silver is asking a simple question: What happened to just loving the game?
Will the Media Actually Change Its Approach?
That’s the big unknown. The modern media ecosystem runs on engagement — and controversy drives clicks. But Silver’s callout might inspire some to take a second look at how they cover the sport.
There’s room, he says, for both criticism and celebration.
Imagine a world where highlight reels are shown before the gossip. Where postgame shows spotlight smart plays instead of side-eye glances. Where broadcasters explain the beauty of the game — not just the politics around it.
Why Do Fans Appreciate Silver’s Honesty?
Because he’s one of the few commissioners in sports who speaks directly to fans, with clarity and care.
Silver isn’t out to silence anyone — he just wants to rebalance the story. And his love for the sport is obvious every time he steps up to a mic.
At a time when many in leadership shy away from tough conversations, Silver walks straight into them — and does it with grace, intelligence, and transparency.
Can We Bring the Focus Back to Basketball?
Adam Silver’s message is clear: Let’s not forget why we fell in love with basketball in the first place.
Sure, the drama will always be part of the NBA. That’s entertainment. But when the heart of the game — the plays, the passion, the purpose — gets drowned out by noise, it’s time to recalibrate.
Silver just held up a mirror. Now it’s up to the media — and maybe even us, the fans — to reflect on what we really want from the sport we love.
