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Former NBA Commissioner David Stern died Wednesday following a brain hemorrhage he suffered last month, the NBA said. He was 77.

Stern's wife and family were by his side when he died, the NBA statement said.

Stern, who headed the league for 30 years, making him the NBA's longest-serving commissioner, is widely credited with having made the NBA the organization it is today, said Adam Silver, who succeeded him as commissioner in 2014.

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"Because of David, the NBA is truly a global brand — making him not only one of the greatest sports commissioners of all time but also one of the most influential business leaders of his generation," Silver said. "Every member of the NBA family is the beneficiary of David's vision, generosity and inspiration."

NBA Commissioner David Stern presented Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls with the league's Most Valuable Player award in Chicago in 1992. Nathaniel S. Butler / NBAE via Getty Images file

"For 22 years, I had a courtside seat to watch David in action. He was a mentor and one of my dearest friends," Silver said. "Like every NBA legend, David had extraordinary talents, but with him it was always about the fundamentals — preparation, attention to detail and hard work."

Stern oversaw the NBA's growth into a league whose games were televised in more than 40 languages in more than 200 countries and territories. The league added seven franchises and launched the WNBA and the NBA Development League, now called the G League.

NBA Commissioner David Stern presented Magic Johnson of the Los Angeles Lakers with one of his NBA championship rings in 1987. Andrew D. Bernstein / NBAE via Getty Images file

He was also involved in numerous initiatives that changed the league, including drug tests, a salary cap and a dress code.

And after he left his post, he wouldn't let staffers use the word "retire," because he never intended to stop working. Stern remained affiliated with the league with the title of "commissioner emeritus" and took overseas trips on the league's behalf. He always kept an office in New York.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, on behalf of his league, said in a statement professional football was deeply saddened by the death of Stern. "David was a driving force in sports for decades and helped the NBA soar to new heights around the world," Goodell said. "I called him the dean of commissioners, not only for his longevity and his vision for the NBA, but for his willingness to offer advice when I first started as NFL commissioner."

Condolences and remembrances began pouring in on Twitter from the NBA community.

RIP Mr David Stern

The best commissioner to ever do it. pic.twitter.com/SgO0hMX3Ia — SHAQ (@SHAQ) January 1, 2020

David Stern was such a history maker. When I announced in 1991 I had HIV, people thought they could get the virus from shaking my hand. When David allowed me to play in the 1992 All Star Game in Orlando and then play for the Olympic Dream Team, we were able to change the world. — Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 1, 2020

Steve Kerr on the legacy of Commissioner Emeritus David Stern. pic.twitter.com/kUWpEbfBr2 — Golden State Warriors (@warriors) January 1, 2020

The game changed in so many ways under David Stern’s leadership and vision. He demanded the best of everyone because he gave it himself. #Respect Thank you Commissioner. RIP 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/veT9GQfrdC — Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) January 1, 2020

The league wouldn’t be what it is today without you. The entire NBA family and fans around the world will miss you. 💔 #2009Draftday

RIP David Stern🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/tnSYMsTnjp — James Harden (@JHarden13) January 1, 2020

Will never forget the words you spoke this day! "With the 7th pick" changed my life forever. Thank you and your family for your leadership and commitment to growing the game of basketball around the World. Forever grateful. RIP Commisoner Stern! pic.twitter.com/o7S4IT54NQ — Stephen Curry (@StephenCurry30) January 1, 2020

Stern is survived by his wife Dianne and two sons, Andrew and Eric.