The Miami Heat showed a tribute video of former NBA Commissioner David Stern before their game against the Toronto Raptors.

Former NBA commissioner Stern passed away on Wednesday afternoon as the result of the brain hemorrhage he suffered in December. The 77-year-old Stern was the commissioner of the NBA for a record 30 seasons overseeing the league through a period of growth. He is the longest-tenured commissioner in NBA history.

Stern truly made the NBA into what it is today. He was responsible for adding seven NBA franchises during his time as the commissioner as well as adding the WNBA and the G-League. He also can be credited for negotiating crucial television deals, expanding team salary caps, and turning the NBA into a global brand.

It's worth noting, the league's salary cap was just $3.6 million during Stern's first official season (1984-85) as commissioner, according to Tommy Beer of Forbes. The league's salary cap this season is now at 109.14 million. In 2014, David Stern stepped down as commissioner and gave the role to Adam Silver.

Many NBA players shared their condolences to David Stern and his family as they learned the news of his passing yesterday. He was a highly respected individual around the league.

The Heat is seeking to get back in the win column after the Washington Wizards snapped their 5 game winning streak on Monday. They are currently the third seed in the Eastern Conference.

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