That’s when the fun began. Cuban’s …

That’s when the fun began. Cuban’s first few years were a meteoric rise behind Nowitzki and constant bickering with the NBA office about officiating and untold other issues. “I was so excited about the whole thing,” he said. “I was just a big kid enjoying my new toy. “That’s what I tried to do. I’ve had a lot of fun with it, through all the battles with David Stern. David made me in so many ways. He got me in. He encouraged me to raise hell and contribute to the donut fund. “He told me last year, the last time I saw him, he said: “You know, I made you.’ I was like, You absolutely did. Nobody knew who I was until you started fining me and I started raising hell.”

Detroit is preparing for Drummond, 26, …

Detroit is preparing for Drummond, 26, to decline his $29 million option on the 2020-21 season and become a free agent, league sources said. Pistons owner Tom Gores has long been a strong advocate of Drummond’s, but there’s an increased movement in the organization to use Drummond as a trade asset to begin creating some salary-cap flexibility for the future, league sources said.

Michael Jordan: “Without David Stern, …

Michael Jordan: “Without David Stern, the NBA would not be what it is today. He guided the league through turbulent times and grew the league into an international phenomenon, creating opportunities that few could have imagined before. His vision and leadership provided me with the global stage that allowed me to succeed. David had a deep love for the game of basketball and demanded excellence from those around him – and I admired him for that. I wouldn’t be where I am without him. I offer my deepest sympathies to Dianne and his family.”

Jim Martin, the president and CEO of …

Jim Martin, the president and CEO of Kroenke Sports & Entertainment for the last nine years, is retiring from his position, a source told The Denver Post. Martin will step down at the end of business Tuesday, the source said, as KSE finds itself embroiled in a protracted dispute with two of Altitude Sports’ largest television distributors. Martin’s retirement ends a 15-year tenure with the company.

Jacksonville Jaguars keep Doug Marrone, Dave Caldwell (Jaguarswire)

Jaguars owner Shad Khan said both Marrone and Dave Caldwell, Jacksonville’s general manager, are staying with the franchise.

Jaguars owner Shad Khan said both Marrone and Dave Caldwell, Jacksonville’s general manager, are staying with the franchise.