The NBA's growth was slow in its early years, but the 1980s marked a turning point. The rivalry between Magic Johnson's Los Angeles Lakers and Larry Bird's Boston Celtics captivated audiences, bringing unprecedented attention to the league. The arrival of Michael Jordan in the 1990s further elevated basketball's global profile, transforming the NBA into a multibillion-dollar industry.

Today, the NBA boasts superstar athletes like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Giannis Antetokounmpo, who have expanded the league's reach beyond North America. International players now dominate the sport, reflecting basketball's worldwide appeal. The NBA's influence extends beyond the court, with players becoming cultural icons and advocates for social change.