Adam Silver Thanks IST MVP LeBron James for Making 1st Iteration a Massive Success

The NBA piloted its inaugural In-Season Tournament with apprehension, unsure of how it would be received. Even though there were more than a few initial doubts, the rapidly increasing excitement of players and fans ensured that the IST was here to stay. And Adam Silver believes LeBron James is responsible in large part for its success.

Leading his Lakers to the in-season victory, the franchise made sure to mark that moment in history. They introduced a new IST banner to remind themselves of what they were capable of. Commission Silver, on the other hand, sees that as a major win in the NBA books.

Silver thanks LeBron James for his part in IST’s success

Talking to Mike Trudell, Silver couldn’t contain his excitement as he thanked the Lakers for embracing the IST and was “very pleased” with the first iteration.

He further says that it was encouraging to watch every team accept and embrace the new change wholeheartedly. And LeBron being the MVP makes it all the more special. He has practically accomplished everything an NBA player can achieve in the league. So to watch the 4x NBA champion lead his squad to their first-ever in-season championship was “fantastic”.

Silver couldn’t be happier with how everything worked out. So much so that he is already in discussion about the next season of IST.

Read More: Searching for a Billion-Dollar Deal, NBA Set To Imitate NFL’s “Additional Inventory” Strategy

“Back with a couple of tweaks”: Adam Silver promises changes

Before traveling to Paris for the Cavaliers vs Nets matchup, the NBA Commissioner had met with team presidents to discuss the next season of IST. As reported by Joe Vardon of The Athletic, he confirmed that everyone was happy with the success their latest addition brought.

Silver also promised that there would be changes to the same. Or in his words, “probably just a couple tweaks.” They include, more specifically, the format to follow during a tie, the look and style of the courts, and even the name itself. The finer details are yet to be revealed, but one lucky broadcast partner would get exclusive rights to stream the IST games.

The TV deal negotiations are still ongoing. So, it’s natural that it will affect the in-season tournament in one way or another. Until further details are revealed, it is a waiting game.

Watch This Story: Lakers Unveil Banner for LeBron James and Co’s 1st Ever In-Season Tournament Glory