NBA commissioner David Stern has to be jumping with joy as the playoffs are in full swing. Stern, who does a phenomenal job promoting his product, has to be proud about the tight races this season. Now the postseason has already produced some special moments thanks to some great matchups.

There have been superstar efforts early in the playoffs. Guys like Tim Duncan, Chris Paul, Dwight Howard and Pau Gasol put up amazing numbers in victories. I have always felt the cream rises to the top, and the playoffs provide a perfect forum for the best of the best to shine.

LeBron and the Cavaliers are battling the Wizards and Antawn Jamison. Talk about an intense series. The same can be said for the Spurs and Suns. Game 1 was a classic. I would not be shocked if it goes seven games.

I am a college basketball guy, but I love and respect that talent of the NBA players. Yes, I called many of them when they were in school, but they have developed even further.

When I look at the premier athletes in the world, I truly feel pro basketball players are uno number one, baby! I admire the talent of these individuals. Check out the agility and mobility of the athletes. Those that put on the NBA uniform are like Baryshnikov in shorts; it is amazing to see LeBron James, Kevin Garnett and Kobe Bryant flying through the air.

It's lots of fun already and Stern has to be smiling.

Dick Vitale coached the Pistons and the University of Detroit before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in December 1979. Send him a question for possible use on ESPNEWS.