NBA: Rise in a Parallel World

The press hall at NBA Headquarters in New York City was packed with media representatives from all over the country.

Hundreds of reporters, photographers, and broadcasters had gathered for this historic moment—the first official NBA press conference.

The event was being broadcast live on multiple platforms, including NBA TV, YouTube TV, and major sports networks like ESPN, TNT, and CBS.

Millions of curious fans tuned in, eager to learn more about the league that had taken the sports world by storm.

The comments section on YouTube was flooded with reactions:

"A full-court, five-on-five league? This sounds way better than the ABA's 3X3 games!"

"I'm sick of watching ABA half-court games. It's about time someone gave us real basketball!"

"Can we just start the season already?! I can't wait any longer!"

Inside the news hall, the buzz of conversation suddenly faded as Nathan Cole, President and CEO of the NBA, stepped onto the stage.

Dressed in a sharp navy-blue suit, Nathan exuded confidence and authority as he walked to the podium.

Until now, NBA Vice President Louis Carter had been handling most public appearances.

This was Nathan's first official press conference.

The moment he appeared, the clicking of cameras filled the air as photographers scrambled to capture his image.

Nathan paused for a moment, scanning the audience—hundreds of reporters, all watching him intently.

Then, with a calm and steady voice, he spoke.

"Thank you all for taking the time to attend the first official press conference of the NBA. My name is Nathan Cole, and I am the President of this league."

Applause erupted across the room.

Despite being young, Nathan had already gained the respect of the sports world for founding a professional basketball league capable of challenging the established order.

Once the applause settled, Nathan continued.

*"The NBA was officially established in early August. It has only been two months, but in that short time, we have made incredible progress.

While we may not yet match the influence of the NFL, MLB, or NHL, we have already secured 42 major sponsorships, signed 500 players, and assembled **30 professional teams.

Most importantly, we have finalized the schedule for the inaugural NBA season.**

Mark your calendars—October 27 will be opening night for the first NBA season!"*

The audience erupted into applause once again.

Fans had been waiting eagerly for this announcement—and now, the countdown to the first-ever NBA game had officially begun.

After introducing the league's progress, Nathan shifted the discussion to the NBA's broader mission.

*"Although the NBA is a newly established league, we believe that basketball is more than just a game.

That's why we are launching several community and charity programs to make a difference in people's lives.

These include:

Community outreach programs to promote youth basketball.

Educational scholarships and player mentoring programs for underprivileged students.

Charity training camps and fundraising events to support local communities.

Team-based social initiatives focusing on public health and wellness."*

The room filled with the sound of applause.

Reporters and analysts nodded approvingly—sports leagues had a responsibility to give back, and Nathan was making it clear that the NBA would take that responsibility seriously.

*"Each of our 30 teams will establish their own community service departments to ensure that these efforts continue year-round.

We invite the public to hold us accountable and support us in making a lasting impact."*

For the first time, people saw that the NBA wasn't just about business—it was about legacy.

Next, Nathan detailed the NBA's competitive format, ensuring that both fans and the media understood what to expect.

*"The NBA season will officially begin on October 27 and will last for over five months.

Each team will play 82 regular-season games, and the top eight teams from both the Eastern and Western Conferences will advance to the playoffs.

In early February, the NBA will host a 7-day All-Star Weekend, bringing together the league's best players for special events, skills challenges, and the All-Star Game.

Starting in mid-April, the NBA Playoffs will begin.

The top eight teams from each conference will compete in best-of-seven series until only two teams remain.

Then, in June, the champions of the Eastern and Western Conferences will face off in the NBA Finals—where a new dynasty will be born."*

The reporters nodded approvingly.

The structure was well-planned and competitive, ensuring excitement throughout the season.

Unlike the ABA, which struggled with consistency, the NBA's format was built for long-term success.

With the speech concluded, the event transitioned into a question-and-answer session.

A reporter from The New York Times asked:

"Mr. Cole, you mentioned that the NBA's salary cap is set at $57.6 million. How was this number determined?"

Nathan replied:

*"In the NBA, the salary cap is directly tied to our total league revenue.

Each year, 48% of the NBA's total revenue is allocated to player salaries.

That amount is then divided evenly among all teams—resulting in this year's cap of $57.6 million per team.

However, teams that exceed the luxury tax threshold of $66 million will have to pay an additional luxury tax penalty."*

The audience nodded in understanding—the system ensured financial balance across the league.

A reporter from The Los Angeles Times asked:

"Will the NBA expand beyond 30 teams in the future?"

Nathan responded:

*"For now, we have no immediate expansion plans.

However, if the demand and resources are there in the future, we won't rule it out."*

A reporter from The Washington Post asked:

"Currently, all 30 NBA teams are under league ownership. Will you allow private investors to purchase teams?"

Nathan smiled.

*"Absolutely. If business leaders are willing to pay a high price, I am happy to see private ownership enter the league.

However, the NBA will always maintain operational independence to ensure fair competition and financial stability.

Our goal is to protect the long-term success of all franchises—rich and small."*

It was a clear message to potential buyers—if you want an NBA team, be prepared to pay big.

A CBS reporter asked:

"The ABA recently announced plans to launch its own five-on-five basketball league to compete with the NBA. How do you respond?"

Nathan chuckled.

*"The NBA isn't worried about what the ABA is doing.

We are **focused on delivering the best basketball experience possible.

No matter what happens, we will continue growing our league and bringing the best game to fans worldwide."*

After answering ten key questions, the event came to an end.

The first NBA press conference was a massive success—setting the stage for the league's official launch.

The sports world was now fully aware of what the NBA was bringing to the table.

With a clear structure, financial backing, and growing fan support, the NBA was ready to take over.

Nathan stepped down from the stage, knowing one thing for sure—history was about to be made.