Michael Jordan has played a key role in the NBA's collective bargaining agreement negotiations with the players that are nearing completion.
"Let me just single out one owner in particular, Michael Jordan," Silver said during his upbeat update on CBA negotiations this week following the Board of Governors meetings in Manhattan.
"I think having Michael Jordan as part of our negotiating committee, the unique perspective he brings to the bargaining table because of his playing career, having been, of course, a superstar player. Now for players to see him in that position, it doesn't mean that if Michael says it, it necessarily means that they accept that as the position they should take. But I think that's really added a special element unique to this league."
Jordan bought a minority stake in the then-Charlotte Bobcats in 2006 and became majority owner in 2010.
"I think [Jordan's presence], that added an enormous amount to the atmosphere in the room," Silver said.