4. Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner
The most recognisable off-court face in basketball, Adam Silver was named Commissioner of the NBA back in 2014.
A lawyer by trade, Silver first joined the NBA in 1992 and served in various capacities, including as COO and Deputy Commissioner under his predecessor, David Stern, who subsequently recommended him for the top job.
Over the years, the 61-year-old has been instrumental in the development of the WNBA, NBA G League, NBA 2K League and Basketball Africa League, as well as the establishment of NBA China and NBA Africa.