Though he already heads one of the largest sports leagues in the world, NBA commissioner Adam Silver appears to be in the running for a major role with an even larger corporate entity.
Charles Gasparino of FOX Business Network reported this week that Silver is on the shortlist of candidates to succeed Bob Iger as the CEO of the Walt Disney Company.
Iger, 72, had a successful tenure as Disney’s CEO from 2005-20 before temporarily stepping down. At the request of Disney’s Board of Directors, Iger returned as their CEO in November of 2022, taking back the reins from his embattled successor Bob Chapek. Iger is serving almost as interim CEO at this juncture -- he does not plan on holding the post for more than two additional years -- and is working with Disney’s board to find a permanent replacement.
The NBA enjoys a close relationship with Disney, the parent company of league broadcast partner ESPN. Disney World in Orlando, Fla. also served as the bubble home for the restarted 2019-20 NBA season (following its initial suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic). Additionally, Iger was recently named as a candidate to buy an NBA team (but did not ultimately do so).
For his part, Silver has served as NBA commissioner since 2014, with his current contract set to expire after 2024. Silver’s deputy commissioner is Mark Tatum, ho also serves as the NBA’s chief operating officer.
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