In a groundbreaking moment for the NBA, Commissioner Adam Silver addressed the excitement surrounding the upcoming Finals featuring two small-market teams, highlighting a shift in league dynamics. As the Finals tip off tomorrow night, Silver emphasized the significance of this historic matchup, drawing parallels to the NFL and the Super Bowl, where franchise legacy overshadows market size. “It’s been intentional from our standpoint to create a system that allows more teams to compete,” Silver stated, urging fans to embrace this evolution of the league.

The Commissioner’s comments come as the Dallas Mavericks prepare to make headlines of their own, having won the coveted number one pick in the draft lottery. Silver clarified the odds were not as improbable as some might believe; the Mavs had a mere 2% chance of clinching the top spot, a stark contrast to the 14% chance held by the league’s worst-performing team. “The lottery is designed to disincentivize tanking,” he noted, reinforcing the integrity of the process despite skepticism about its fairness.

As anticipation builds for the Finals, Silver called for fans to rally behind the teams that have earned their place on the biggest stage. “If you’re a huge basketball fan, you should want to tune in because that’s the best basketball,” he urged. The stakes are high, and the league is poised for a thrilling conclusion to the season, with both the Finals and the Mavs’ future at the forefront of NBA discussions.

This pivotal moment symbolizes a shift in the league’s narrative, inviting fans to celebrate not just the game but the diverse landscape of teams that fight for glory, regardless of market size. The NBA is evolving, and all eyes are on the court as history unfolds.