Silver worthy successor as NBA commissioner (AP) - Whenever David Stern retires, he's certain Adam Silver is ready to be the next NBA commissioner. Stern calls Silver, the deputy commissioner since 2006, a "first-rate, top of the class executive," and would choose him as his successor if he made the decision. However, he says that will be left to owners. Stern hasn't said when he will step down, though he says it will be before the next round of collective bargaining, which could be in five years. He hasn't told owners how long he is committed to staying, but says that discussion will come "very soon." Also Saturday during his annual All-Star press conference, Stern reiterated that he's trying to make a deal to keep the Kings in Sacramento.