NEW YORK – NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement today regarding the passing of former Milwaukee Bucks governor and U.S. Senator Herb Kohl:

“Senator Kohl was a dear friend and one of our very best public servants.  In addition to his decades of devoted service in the U.S. Senate, he set the standard for NBA team ownership as the governor of his hometown Milwaukee Bucks for nearly 30 years.  Through his purchase of the team, Senator Kohl ensured that the Bucks would stay in Milwaukee and remain an important pillar of the community.  There was never any doubt about his extraordinary commitment to the franchise and city that he loved, and his vision and unparalleled financial contribution towards a new arena in Milwaukee will forever be remembered.

“I send my deepest condolences to Senator Kohl’s family, friends and the Bucks organization.  He will be deeply missed by his NBA family.”