ATLANTA — If nothing else, David Stern is one of the biggest NBA fans in the world. He is, after all, the commissioner.

Stern was at Philips Arena last night and discussed several subjects with reporters before the game. He says the health of the game has never been stronger thanks to an influx of talented young players, great veterans and the addition of foreign stars.

“It’s a time of extraordinary talent in the league,” said Stern. “We’ve had the best race in the West that we’ve had in our history and yet the East has had its share of playoff thrills.”

Stern said it’s great for the league to have the Celtics back in contention, and also to see long-suffering teams like the Hawks battle back to the postseason thanks to good drafting and shrewd trades.

“We’ve seen in these playoffs that every team that gets this far has the ability to have its day,” he said. “It sends a good message to the fans about the future of their teams.”

Stern said the league supports the Sonics’ decision to leave Seattle for Oklahoma City because of arena issues. He was also asked about several on- and off-court disciplinary incidents over the last few weeks. Included was the league’s decision to fine Boston’s Paul Pierce and Washington’s DeShawn Stevenson $25,000 yesterday for making menacing gestures in recent games.

“Our reaction to much of this is it’s the playoffs,” he said. “We’re used to a certain increased intensity, high tension.”

While not admitting that Pierce’s fine was justified, Celtics coach Doc Rivers agreed that the league’s players should concentrate on basketball.

“Obviously, you’d wish none of this happened,” said Rivers. “Our league has had one heck of a year, if you know what I’m saying. Let’s just get to playing basketball, please. Enough. I love what Lebron (James) said, ‘I’m a basketball player and I’m no longer getting involved in this (stuff). I’m just going to play basketball.’ I think that’s great advice for the entire league.”

kmcnamar@projo.com