Stumped by This Crossword Clue? Let’s Crack the Case of David Stern’s Successor!
Hey crossword fanatics! Are you staring blankly at a clue that’s got you stumped? I know the feeling – that frustrating moment when you’re so close, yet so far. Today’s puzzle has thrown a real curveball with this particular clue:
“David Stern’s successor as N.B.A. commissioner.”
This one’s a toughie, especially if you aren’t a die-hard NBA fan. It demands a specific knowledge of basketball history, going beyond simply knowing the current commissioner. It requires you to remember the impactful tenure of David Stern and the individual who stepped into his sizable shoes.
To help you solve this, let’s delve into some strategic thinking for tackling tricky crossword clues like this one. First, consider the word count. How many letters does the answer need? This significantly narrows your possibilities. Next, analyze the clue structure. It’s a straightforward definition clue, but the embedded information is crucial. Knowing
who
David Stern was is vital, as it dictates the pool of possible answers.
We need to think about the characteristics of the clue itself. Is it a proper noun? Absolutely! This points towards a person’s name. This helps eliminate a vast number of potential answers that might otherwise spring to mind. Proper nouns often require a specific knowledge base, and that’s precisely where the challenge of this clue resides.
Furthermore, consider the context of the crossword puzzle as a whole. Are there any intersecting words that might provide hints? Often, letters revealed in intersecting words can trigger a “lightbulb” moment, helping you decipher even the most stubborn clues.
Let’s explore some strategies to unlock this clue without giving away the answer. Try brainstorming a list of individuals associated with the NBA. Consider former players, coaches, referees… and then, narrow that list down to those who could plausibly have held the position of NBA commissioner. This process of elimination will likely bring you closer to the correct solution.
Finally, remember to use all the resources available to you. If you’re stuck, online crossword solvers and dictionaries can be extremely helpful, though it’s always more satisfying to arrive at the answer through deduction!
So, put on your thinking caps, fellow word enthusiasts! Use the hints and strategies above to tackle this challenging clue. I’m confident you’ll crack it. And if all else fails, don’t hesitate to return to this post for a friendly nudge (though I won’t spoil the answer just yet!). Let me know in the comments how you fared! Good luck!
Available Answers:
ADAM SILVER.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 4 Jan 25, Saturday