Stern

NEW YORK --National Hockey League Commissioner Gary Bettmanreleased the following statement after the passing of NBA Commissioner Emeritus David Stern:

"I am extremely saddened at the passing of my mentor and long-time friend David Stern. He was a man of great vision and energy who is responsible for the operational and business advancements that created the modern sports industry. David taught me how to be a commissioner and, more importantly, how to try to be a good person. David will be missed terribly, especially by his wife Dianne and his sons Andrew and Eric, all of whom have Shelli's and my deepest condolences."