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David Stern issues statement on passing of Nelson Mandela, players take to twitter

Anti-apartheid leader and African Nation

Anti-apartheid leader and African National Congress (ANC) member Nelson Mandela smiles and clenches his fist as he poses during a photo session after his first press conference since his release from jail, 12 February 1990 in Cape Town. AFP PHOTO WALTER DHLADHLA (Photo credit should read WALTER DHLADHLA/AFP/Getty Images)

WALTER DHLADHLA

Nelson Mandela, the iconic former president of South Africa who helped lead his nation out of the apartheid era to one of more equality, has passed away at the age of 95.

The loss is humanity’s, but the world is better off for his full and purposeful life.

NBA Commissioner Stern issued this statement on Mandela’s passing.

“Nelson Mandela was one of the most powerful and inspirational leaders in the world and a great friend of the NBA. He led his nation to democracy at incredible personal sacrifice, and in rebuilding it, he understood how to harness the power of sport to inspire and unite people of all backgrounds. Our thoughts and hopes are with the Mandela family and the people of South Africa, and while we mourn his passing we know that his legacy and quest for equality will endure.”

Some NBA players also took to twitter to express their thoughts.