Adam Silver: "I think we're onto something"

Obviously, with his statement the day before about a World vs. USA format at the next All-Star Game, Adam Silver expected to have to give more details during his traditional pre-final press conference Thursday night in Oklahoma City. "I don't think a direct clash between the USA and the World makes sense," he qualified as the preparations on the court could be heard even in the press room. After all, while the proportion of NBA players born outside the United States is around 30%, Americans still make up 70% of the league. Two teams of twelve could create a feeling of injustice among unselected locals. The commissioner seems to be thinking more about a format with several teams, perhaps divided by region.

With the Olympics being broadcast at the same time on the same network in the United States (NBC, which has bought part of the NBA's TV rights), the atmosphere will lend itself to nationalism, he suggested. Perhaps enough to finally get back to an exciting All-Star Game and forget the mush of the last few years. "I know I stood on that podium thinking I had it figured out," Silver smiled. "I haven't done it yet, but I think we're onto something. There's a real opportunity to increase interest and competitiveness among the players."

Africa, a gigantic market

This format would validate the internationalization of the league, with the last seven MVP awards awarded to a player born outside the United States, including Canadian finalist Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. And while he continues to "explore" the addition of new franchises in the United States (30 today), the NBA boss considers a future NBA Europe or the development of the current Basketball Africa League as a form of expansion.

In five years, the continent will be home to 40% of the world's youth. A continent where basketball is growing, even if football remains by far the most popular sport. "Looking ahead, we must not only think about where our players will come from, but also about Africa as a market. Around 55 countries. A combined population larger than China. Six of the ten fastest-growing economies on the planet," said the man who has led the league since 2014. "I am very optimistic about this continent."