Adam Silver cites NFL influence for recent NBA rule changes

On September 16, 2026, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver acknowledged that the league's rule changes were inspired by the NFL. He specifically referred to the introduction of the second apron in the salary cap, designed to enhance competitive parity. Silver noted that this shift has contributed to a in which eight different teams have claimed championships over the past eight years. He emphasized a desire for all franchises to have a fair chance at winning, regardless of their market size. The second apron imposes increased tax liabilities on teams that accumulate multiple All-Star players. This reform is part of ongoing collective bargaining agreements that will continue until at least 2030, promoting a competitive balance across the league.

• 6:11 AMYahoo Sports — Adam Silver admits copying the NFL, which has led to eight different NBA champions in eight years